Italian Football Legend Salvatore Schillaci Dies at 59
Salvatore ‘Toto’ Schillaci, the legendary Italian footballer who became a national hero during the 1990 World Cup, has passed away at the age of 59 following a prolonged battle with **colon cancer.
Career Highlights
Schillaci, known for his incredible performance during Italia 90, where he won the Golden Boot and the Player of the Tournament awards, was one of Italy’s most cherished football icons. He scored six goals during the tournament and came second in the 1990 **Ballon d’Or**. Throughout his career, he made 384 match appearances and netted 159 goals, playing for clubs like Juventus and Inter Milan.
Post-Retirement and Health Struggles
After retiring from professional football, Schillaci returned to his hometown of Palermo, where he opened a youth football academy to nurture future talent. Two years ago, Schillaci was diagnosed with colon cancer, and his health worsened recently due to complications, including an atrial arrhythmia.
Tributes Pour In
Football clubs and officials from around the world have paid tribute to the Italian hero. Inter Milan posted a touching message in his honor, recalling how he inspired the nation during the “Magic Nights” of Italia 90:
“He made an entire nation dream during the Magic Nights of Italia 90. FC Internazionale Milano gathers around the Schillaci family for the passing of Totò.”
Juventus also honored Schillaci with a heartfelt statement
“We fell in love with Totò right away, with his desire, his story, and his passion. He enchanted all of Italy with his energy and celebrations during that incredible summer of 1990.”
National Mourning
Italian Prime Minister **Giorgia Meloni expressed her condolences, stating: “A football icon leaves us, a man who entered the hearts of Italians and sports lovers around the world. Salvatore Schillaci, known to all as Totò, the bomber of the magical nights of Italia ’90. Thank you for the emotions you gave us.”
The Mayor of Palermo also expressed his sorrow:
“With the premature passing of Totò Schillaci, the city mourns the loss of the most representative Palermo footballer in history at a global level.”
Salvatore ‘Toto’ Schillaci’s legacy will live on through the memories of his incredible achievements and his contributions to the football community. Rest in peace, Totò.