Despite being famous for missing the decisive penalty in the 1994 World Cup final, Roberto Baggio is undoubtedly one of the best footballers in the history of Italian football. Known for his unique style of play, Baggio’s career was filled with remarkable achievements and unforgettable moments. In this article, we delve into the biography of Roberto Baggio, providing you with everything you need to know about this legendary figure.
Roberto Baggio is a retired player who made his mark on Italian football for two decades until his retirement in 2004. Throughout his career, Baggio played various positions, from striker to attacking midfielder. He represented Italy in three World Cups and captivated the nation’s attention by leading them to the 1994 World Cup final almost single-handedly.
Everything to Know About Roberto Baggio
Baggio enjoyed a successful career in Serie A, participating in 453 games and scoring 205 goals over 19 seasons. He also played 56 matches for the Italian national team, finding the net 27 times. In the three World Cups he played, Baggio scored nine goals, but it was the penalty miss in the 1994 World Cup final against Brazil that became the defining moment of his career.
Credit: 90s Football
Roberto Baggio Information
Born on February 18, 1967, Roberto Baggio’s real name is the same as his football name. Let’s take a look at some general information about him:
- Full Name: Roberto Baggio
- Nickname: Il Divin Codino, Raffaello
- Profession: Professional Football Player
Physical Stats
To understand the physical attributes of Roberto Baggio, here are some details:
- Height: 174 cm (5′ 9″ feet)
- Eye Color: Green
- Hair Color: Brown
- Weight: 73 Kilograms
Date of Birth and Personal Info
Here are some personal details about Roberto Baggio:
- Date of Birth: February 18, 1967
- Birth Place: Caldogno, Italy
- Nationality: Italian
Football Information
Let’s explore some key football details about Roberto Baggio:
- Position: Striker, Attacking Midfielder
- Professional Debut: June 5, 1983
- Jersey Number: 10
Credit: FC Divin Codino
Roberto Baggio Early Life
Roberto Baggio, born in Caldogno, Italy, had a fascinating childhood. He grew up in a small village with seven siblings, and his father was an avid cyclist. However, Roberto’s passion for football was undeniable, and he played daily, honing his skills and showcasing his exceptional talent. At a young age, he idolized players like Zico and aspired to reach their level of expertise. Just before his graduation, Roberto made the decision to quit school and join the Serie A side LR Vicenza.
Roberto Baggio Profile
As Baggio’s career progressed, he played for top clubs in Italy, including Juventus, AC Milan, and Inter Milan. Known for his exceptional ball control, dribbling skills, and scoring ability, Baggio made his mark on the football world. Despite his numerous achievements, it was his penalty miss in the 1994 World Cup final that became the most infamous scene in his career.
Football Career
Baggio’s career was nothing short of remarkable. He played for various clubs in the Italian league, including Vicenza, Fiorentina, Juventus, AC Milan, Bologna, Inter Milan, and Brescia. Let’s take a closer look at his impressive journey:
Fiorentina
Credit: FM Scout
After impressing at Vicenza, Baggio made a £1.5m transfer to Fiorentina in 1985. His first season was marred by injury, but he quickly established himself as a promising talent. In his final season with Fiorentina, Baggio led the club to the 1990 UEFA Cup Final, finishing as the second-highest goalscorer in the 1989-90 Serie A season.
Juventus
Credit: Planet Football
Baggio’s time at Juventus was both exceptional and controversial. Although he struggled initially, he eventually established himself as a key player for the team. In the 1993 season, he led Juventus to victory in the UEFA Cup and won the Golden Ball and “Best Player of the Year” award. However, his refusal to take a crucial penalty against Fiorentina led to accusations of betrayal from some Juventus fans.
AC Milan
Credit: Derby Telegraph
Baggio joined AC Milan and continued to demonstrate his talent, helping the team win the Serie A title in his first season. He played a pivotal role, scoring goals and providing assists. However, his relationship with the coach deteriorated, resulting in a decline in form for both Baggio and the team.
Bologna
Credit: Tutto Bologna
At Bologna, Baggio aimed to secure a spot in the starting lineup for the 1998 World Cup. Despite his popularity, he faced difficulties with the manager but eventually became a regular player. Baggio had an outstanding season, scoring 22 goals in Serie A, and led the team to their best-ever finish in the league.
Inter Milan
Credit: Planet Football
Baggio’s move to Inter Milan was overshadowed by managerial changes and conflicts. Despite limited opportunities on the field, he made crucial contributions to the team. His game-winning goal against Hellas Verona showcased his importance to Inter Milan.
Brescia
Credit: Transfermarkt
In his final club career chapter, Baggio joined Brescia. After initially struggling with injuries, he rediscovered his form and played a pivotal role in Brescia’s success. Baggio scored his 200th Serie A goal during his time with Brescia before retiring from professional football.
International Career
Credit: History of Soccer
Baggio’s international career showcases his impact on the global stage. He represented Italy in three consecutive World Cups and earned acclaim for his performances. However, it was his missed penalty in the 1994 World Cup final that became the defining image of his international career.
Roberto Baggio’s Playing Style
Credit: Planet Football
Baggio was a talented player with the ability to adapt to various positions on the field. He was known as a “star player” from a young age and possessed exceptional technical skills. Baggio’s style of play made him stand out, and he was often compared to legendary footballers like Zico, Giuseppe Meazza, and Michel Platini.
Reception
Credit: Inter Milan
Roberto Baggio’s career was a testament to his greatness as a footballer. Known for his exceptional ball control, dribbling skills, and scoring ability, he left a lasting impression on the football world. His remarkable achievements, including winning the Ballon d’Or and being named in the FIFA World Cup All-Star Team, solidify his place as one of the greatest players of all time. However, his career was not without controversy, as he faced criticism for missing a crucial penalty in the 1994 World Cup final.
Roberto Baggio Honors
Credit: Goal
Throughout his career, Baggio earned numerous honors and accolades. Some of his notable achievements include winning Serie A titles with Juventus and AC Milan, as well as the Coppa Italia and UEFA Cup. He also led Italy to second and third-place finishes in the World Cup. Individually, Baggio received the Ballon d’Or, FIFA World Player of the Year, and was included in the FIFA 100 list.
Roberto Baggio Outside Professional Life
Credit: Angelfire
Off the field, Baggio’s personal life was as intriguing as his professional career. After a career-threatening injury, he converted to Buddhism and embraced its teachings. Despite his conversion, Baggio married his long-time girlfriend, Andreina Fabbi, in a traditional Roman Catholic ceremony. The couple has three children together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What position did Roberto Baggio play?
A: Roberto Baggio played as a striker and attacking midfielder during his career.
Q: How many goals did Roberto Baggio score in his career?
A: Roberto Baggio scored a total of 291 goals in 643 appearances throughout his career.
Q: Did Roberto Baggio win any major trophies?
A: Yes, Roberto Baggio won two Serie A titles, the Coppa Italia, and the UEFA Cup during his career.
Q: What is Roberto Baggio’s most memorable moment in football?
A: Roberto Baggio’s most memorable moment, unfortunately, is his missed penalty in the 1994 World Cup final.
Q: What is Roberto Baggio’s legacy in Italian football?
A: Roberto Baggio is remembered as one of the greatest footballers in Italian history, known for his exceptional talent and skill on the field.
Conclusion
Roberto Baggio’s career stands as a testament to his incredible talent and skill on the football pitch. Despite the infamous penalty miss, Baggio’s impact on Italian football and his lasting legacy as one of the best players of his generation cannot be denied. His unique playing style, remarkable achievements, and personal journey make him a true icon of the sport. Roberto Baggio will forever be remembered as a legend in the world of football.
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