Farewell to Gianluca Vialli in all stadiums, Roberto Mancini: “I lose a brother”

It’s not a Sunday like any other, it’s not a championship weekend like any other. It’s not just a minute of silence and a real heartfelt remembrance of Gianluca Vialli that of the Italian stadiums. Waiting for Sampdoria to play at 6pm in Marassi against Napoli, the tribute from Juventus has already arrived, taking to the field on Saturday, through the words of Gianluca Pessotto.

The former player and teammate of Gianluca Vialli, now Juventus manager, takes the field and reads a message that belongs to everyone for the captain of Juve’s last European victory, the Champions of 1996. «We are sure that tonight you are here, somewhere, among us, many of us have come to let you know that we will never forget you and we will never stop loving you as from the first minute. You have been a guide, locker room partner and victories, captain, friend. No one will be able to forget your irony, class and charisma, as well as your tenacity. And no one will forget the emotions you gave with plays and goals. We will miss your smiles, we are here together at the stadium ready to embrace you as we were ready to rejoice at your prowess. Hi Captain, have a good trip. We love you”.

Those aren’t the only words. Those of Roberto Mancini who arrived through a video message from the are equally moved and strong Football Association. «It is a great loss for me, for his family and for all of Italian football. It’s a difficult time. We lived almost all of our lives together: there was a close bond, like the one between two brothers, at a certain point in terms of football we separated, but when you are friends you are forever: this was Luca for me. Our relationship has always been great respect, love and friendship».

“I’m losing a brother, I hoped until the end for a miracle,” said the coach of the national team, also talking about the last match just ten days ago. “I was hoping for something to happen, I was hoping for a miracle. We met, we talked, we joked: he was always in a good mood as usual. I was glad to see him like this at the time. Luca was a joyful boy, always cheerful, I’ve rarely seen him angry. He would like to be remembered like this, as well as for having been a great footballer and a great professional.”

Mancini recalled his fundamental role as head of the delegation of the national team at the 2021 European Championships. «Luca was good, he made the boys, especially the younger ones, understand the value of the national team shirt and where it could go. He was a person of great value to us: he spoke to the kids and they liked listening to him. They were beautiful and important moments. He also asked me how the December internship with the young players of the national team went. And now with the national team we will carry on his thoughts».

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