The football fraternity is in mourning following the demise of former Italy and Chelsea striker Gianluca Vialli at a London hospital after a long battle with cancer. This comes barely three weeks after bidding farewell his coaching job as Italy coach.
In his hey days, the prolific striker turned out for Sampdoria, Juventus and Chelsea.
He featured for Italy in the 1986 and 1990 World cups.
In 1996,he played a vital role aiding Juventus win the Champions League, stumping over Ajax.
He won a number of accolades with Chelsea both as player and coach.He led Chelsea to the European cup Winner’s cup and the League cup in 1998 and the FA cup in the year 2000.
When Italy won the Euro 2020,he was part of Roberto Mancini’s technical staff.
Gianluca had initially triumphed over pancreatic cancer after undergoing intensive treatment but it resurfaced in 2021.
Following his death, Chelsea tweeted in his tribute.
“You’ll be missed by so many.A legend to us and to all of football.Rest in Peace, Gianluca Vialli”.
Chelsea chairman Todd Boehly termed Gianluca’s demise as saddening to the club .
“This is truly an awful day for Chelsea Football Club “
At the Stamford Bridge stadium, home to Chelsea,Fans layed flowers alongside the former player and coach in paying their last respects.
Gianluca Vialli has definitely left an indelible mark in football’s history.His death comes just weeks after the passing on of Legendary Brazilian Star Pele.
