Roberto Baggio is a legendary figure in Italian football, renowned for his exceptional skills as a second striker and attacking midfielder. His professional journey began at Vicenza, where he made his debut at just 15 years old. Baggio quickly gained attention for his remarkable talent, scoring 12 goals in his first full season, which helped Vicenza secure promotion to Serie B. His impressive performances led to a high-profile transfer to Fiorentina in 1985, where he became a fan favorite despite battling injuries early in his career. Baggio’s time at Fiorentina was marked by his creativity and goal-scoring ability, culminating in a move to Juventus for a then-world record fee in 1990.

At Juventus, Baggio flourished, winning two Serie A titles and the UEFA Cup. He was instrumental in the club’s success, scoring 115 goals in 200 appearances and earning accolades such as the FIFA World Player of the Year in 1993. His unique playing style and technical prowess earned him the nickname “Il Divin Codino” (The Divine Ponytail). Baggio’s international career with Italy was equally illustrious, where he scored 27 goals in 56 appearances and became the only Italian to score in three World Cups, holding the record for the most goals scored by an Italian in World Cup history.

After stints with AC Milan, Bologna, Inter Milan, and Brescia, Baggio retired in 2004, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest players of all time. His final season was marked by a remarkable achievement of scoring over 200 goals in Serie A, a milestone that solidified his status in football history. Following retirement, Baggio transitioned into a role within the Italian Football Federation, where he served as president of the technical sector, advocating for youth development in the sport.

Baggio’s impact extends beyond the pitch; he is celebrated for his humanitarian efforts, including his work as a Goodwill Ambassador for the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. His contributions to football and society have earned him numerous accolades, including induction into the Italian Football Hall of Fame. Baggio’s legacy as a player, leader, and philanthropist continues to inspire future generations of footballers.