Italian football is in mourning as former Cremonese, Sampdoria, Chelsea, and Juventus striker Gianluca Vialli died at age 58 after battling pancreatic cancer for nearly five years.
His family released a statement Friday morning that read: “Surrounded by his family, he passed away last night after five years of illness faced with courage and dignity.”
“We thank the many who have supported him over the years with their affection. The memory of him and his example will live forever in our hearts.”
The news comes just one month after Vialli stepped away from his role with the Italian national team, stating he was doing so to focus on further treatments. He was a part of Azzurri boss Roberto Mancini’s staff that won Euro 2020 in July 2021.
Following the announcement, the FIGC announced all matches in Serie A this weekend would hold a minute of silence prior to kick-off in honor of Vialli.
