11 August 2015
Gianluca Pessotto celebrates his 45th birthday as he also embarks on his 21st year of professional association with Juventus.
The former full-back’s career on the pitch coincided with one of the most successful periods in Bianconeri history. In only his first season at the club, Pessotto struck one of the winning penalties in the shootout victory over Ajax in the 1996 Champions League final.
Speaking in an interview to Hurrah later that year, the defender declared, “Juventus is the team that has made me the player I am now. I hope to remain here as long as possible. Just as the club is shaping my present, it will also define my future.”
Nineteen years later, these forecasts have been proved accurate, as an eleven-year-long career in the black and white yielded six league titles, an Italian Super Cup, UEFA Super Cup, Intertoto Cup and, of course, the Champions League.
After hanging up his boots in 2006, the former Italy international was appointed Team Manager, a role which sees him help develop Juventus’ youngsters.
Renowned for his intelligence, industry and modesty, Pessotto represents the perfect role model for Academy players on how to make their way in the game.
On his special day, everyone associated with Juventus Football Club wishes Gianluca many happy returns and the best of luck for the new season.
