Italy mourns its top scorer

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The Azzurri are in mourning. The top scorer in the history of the Italian football team, Luigi Riva, died this Monday.

Luigi Riva is no more. The eternal “Gigi” for the Italian people died this Monday at the age of 79, in a town of Cagliari which made its legend: 207 goals in 374 matches in the 60s and 70s. The former international striker had fallen ill and was admitted to Cagliari hospital the day before.

The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) announced the sad news this Monday evening in a press release: “ It is a true national monument which has left us. Gigi Riva embodied the myth of the free man and the extraordinary football player: his pride, his class and his sense of justice united generations and passionate millions of people. »

2006 world champion

I am shocked and deeply saddened », adds the president of the FIGC Gabriele Gravina, not without specifying the formidable record of the man who remains to this day the top scorer of the Italian selection, with 35 goals for 42 caps endorsed. Winner of Euro 1968 with the Azzurri, Luigi Riva was one of the heroes of the 1970 World Cup, lost in the final against Pelé’s Brazil. He was still part of the transalpine staff during the 2006 World Cup won by Italy at the expense of the Blues.

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Manu Tournoux

Manu Tournoux is a passionate and knowledgeable football enthusiast with a special focus on French football. Born and raised in France, Manu discovered his love for the beautiful game at a young age and developed a deep understanding of the ins and outs of "Le Championnat." His French roots and extensive experience in football journalism have made him an invaluable asset to the French Football Weekly team. As an author for the website, Manu's expertise includes not only in-depth analysis of Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 matches but also insightful profiles of up-and-coming talents, detailed transfer news, and engaging coverage of the French national team. His captivating writing style and undeniable passion for the game have earned him a loyal following among our readers. When he's not crafting engaging articles for French Football Weekly, Manu enjoys attending live matches whenever he can, exploring football culture in various French cities, and engaging in spirited debates with fellow fans. Feel free to follow Manu on Twitter and interact with him as he shares his expert opinions, insights, and love for French football.

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