 Lodi started his career as part of Empoli youth system, being later promoted to the first team in 2003, despite his senior debut came during the 2000–01 season.During the winter transfer market, Empoli opted to loan the player out to Vicenza, in Serie B, for the player to gain regular playing time.He went on to make 11 appearances for the "biancorossi" before returning to Empoli for the 2004–05 season, following their relegation.