[3] During his club career, Parolo played for Como, Pistoiese, Foligno, Verona, Cesena, and Parma, before moving to Lazio in 2014.

[7][8] Parolo made his professional debut at Como as a front-lying midfielder in a 4–4–1–1 formation on 19 September 2004, which he scored an own goal.

After a good season in which Parolo earned a national team call-up, Cesena bought the remaining 50% rights from Chievo for €3 million[20] and extended his contract to 2015.

[27][28] On 1 July 2013,[29] Parma exercised the rights to sign Parolo from Cesena for €1 million, but part of a mega cashless player swap.

On 30 June 2014, Claudio Lotito, chairman of Serie A club Lazio, announced the signing of Parolo from Parma, subject to a medical.

[37] He had become a fundamental part of Lazio's starting XI usually playing full matches and resting very little due to his high level of importance.

[citation needed] Parolo received his first national team call-up on 20 March 2011,[38] for a friendly match and UEFA Euro 2012 qualifying.

The technical director of Cesena, Lorenzo Minotti, hinted Parolo would receive a call-up on 15 March in an interview by il Resto del Carlino.

[39] He was subsequently selected by Cesare Prandelli as part of his 23-man squad for the 2014 FIFA World Cup, and made his debut in the competition playing as a substitute in the first game against England.

[41] An offensive-minded player, Parolo usually played as a mezzala, and was known for his tendency to make attacking runs from midfield, and also possessed a keen eye for goal due to his powerful, accurate shooting ability from distance, with either foot, and his strength in the air.

[42][43][44][45] A physical, reliable, and hard-working central, defensive, or box-to-box midfielder, he was also known for his stamina, positional sense, defensive qualities, and ability to break down opposing attacks, as well as his solid technique and distribution, while his efficient and intelligent passing game allowed him to start attacking plays after winning back possession.