September 18th 2024.
The football world is in mourning as news of Salvatore Schillaci's passing at the age of 59 has spread. Italy's Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, has offered her heartfelt condolences and paid tribute to the legendary player, calling him a "football icon" and a "cult hero". She expressed how Schillaci had touched the hearts of Italians and sports fans all over the world.
Meloni, like many others, remembers Schillaci as "Toto" - the man who lit up the magical nights of the 1990 World Cup with his performance for the Italian national team. She thanked him for the unforgettable moments he gave to the nation, the dreams he made them believe in, and the pride he instilled in them as they waved their Tricolore flags.
Schillaci's former club, Juventus, also shared their memories of him in a statement. They recalled how they immediately fell in love with the player, his determination, and his passion for the game. His impact was felt in every match he played, and Juve considers themselves lucky to have experienced it firsthand. In the summer of 1990, not only Juve, but the entire country was captivated by Schillaci's energetic celebrations.
As the statement goes on, it becomes clear that Schillaci's time at Juventus was a memorable one. In his first season with the club, he scored an impressive 15 goals in the league, four in the UEFA Cup, and two in the Coppa Italia. These numbers earned him a spot on the Italian national team for the World Cup, where he went on to become the top scorer of the competition. Together with his teammates, Schillaci helped create what is now known as the "Magical Nights" of Italia '90.
Schillaci's time at Juventus came to an end in 1992, but not before he had made 132 appearances for the club and scored a total of 36 goals. These goals, as the statement mentions, are still remembered with a lump in the throat by fans who were lucky enough to witness them. Juventus says goodbye to their former player, thanking him for the memories he gave them.
The news of Schillaci's passing has left the football world in shock, and there will surely be more tributes to come. But for now, let us remember the heroics of Salvatore Schillaci and the legacy he leaves behind. Rest in peace, Toto.
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