Salvatore Schillaci, the iconic Italian striker who captivated the nation during the 1990 World Cup, has died aged 59 after a courageous battle with colon cancer.
Schillaci was diagnosed with colon cancer two years ago and faced a major setback in his fight against the disease this month, September, when he was hospitalized with an atrial arrhythmia.
The bombshell fell on Wednesday, September 18 when Italian media reported that the Italian legend Schillaci died at Palermo’s “Civico” hospital giving up to the bowel cancer.
Schillaci’s Illustrious Career
The agile forward played for Juventus and Inter Milan, scoring 159 goals in 384 matches.
His most memorable moments came during Italia ’90, where he won the Golden Boot and Player of the Tournament awards.
Schillaci was the surprise star of the 1990 FIFA World Cup, as he helped Italy to a third-place finish on home soil.
He entered as a substitute in Italy’s first game and scored six goals throughout the World Cup.
Tributes Pour In as Salvatore Schillaci passed away
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni hailed Schillaci as a “football icon” who “made us dream.”
Also, Juventus and Inter Milan released heartfelt statements, with Juventus saying, “We fell in love with Toto right away… His desire, story, passion, and celebrations will forever be etched in our memories.”
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also paid tributes, saying: ”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 Toto, the bomber of the magical nights of Italia ’90 with our National team.
”Thank you for the emotions you gave us, for making us dream, cheer, hug and wave our Tricolore. Have a good trip, champion.”
Italian Football Federation President Gabriele Gravina said: ”The unstoppable celebrations, in which his face was a symbol of shared joy, will forever remain a common heritage of Italian football.
”Toto was a great footballer, a tenacious symbol of will and redemption, he was able to thrill the Azzurri fans because his football was full of passion.
”And it was precisely this indomitable spirit that made him appreciated by everyone and will make him immortal.
The Mayor of Palermo also sent his condolences: ”With the premature passing of Toto Schillaci, the city mourns the loss of the most representative Palermo footballer in history at a global level.
”A popularity that, however, has never changed Schillaci, who has always maintained a kind, humble and helpful soul.”
Meanwhile, Serie A immediately announced that a minute of silence would be observed ahead of every match this weekend.
Salvatore Schillaci’s Legacy Lives On
Schillaci’s impact extends beyond his playing career. He founded a youth academy in his native Palermo, nurturing the next generation of football talent.
Italian Football Federation President Gabriele Gravina said, “Toto’s unstoppable celebrations will forever remain a common heritage of Italian football… His indomitable spirit made him appreciated by everyone, and will make him immortal.”
Schillaci is survived by three children: Jessica, Mattia, and Nicole. His legacy as a football icon and beloved Italian hero will endure.
We at Futballnews send our condolences to the family. May his soul Rest in Peace, Toto Schillaci (1964-2023)
