https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/64188093Gianluca Vialli, who has died aged 58, was one of the modern era's great strikers and also one of its most popular and endearing figures.[/color][/font]
The Italian's reputation was forged throughout a stellar career in playing and management, and also by his warm and dignified personality that made him beloved by so many in football around the globe, not only team-mates but also opponents and supporters alike.Vialli played 59 times for Italy after making his debut in 1985, starting his career at lowly Cremonese before coming to wider prominence during a brilliant spell at Sampdoria then at Juventus and Chelsea, where he was a successful player and manager, winning European and domestic honours.[/font][/size]
He was the identikit attacker of his time, powerful and mobile but also capable of grace and skill, adept in the air and on the ground as he swiftly emerged as a force to be reckoned with. Vialli was comfortable through the middle but was also highly effective in the wider areas, testimony to his versatility and game intelligence.[/font][/size]
Vialli became a legendary figure at Sampdoria, where he formed a potent attacking partnership with Roberto Mancini. This was a lifelong friendship that saw him become part of the coach's backroom staff when Italy won Euro 2020, beating England on penalties in the final at Wembley.[/font][/size]
The pair were known as 'I Gemelli del Gol' - 'the goal twins' - as the club embarked on what was then an unprecedented period of success.[/font][/size]
