Former Fiorentina striker Gabriel Batistuta admits he “felt terrible” when he left to join Roma in 2000.
The Argentinian striker scored 207 goals in 332 games for the Viola, but he joined the Giallorossi when the Tuscans fell into financial difficulty.
Batigol won the Scudetto in his first season in the capital, but admits he still felt guilty about abandoning ‘his’ city.
Former Fiorentina striker Gabriel Batistuta admits he “felt terrible” when he left to join Roma in 2000.
The Argentinian striker scored 207 goals in 332 games for the Viola, but he joined the Giallorossi when the Tuscans fell into financial difficulty.
Batigol won the Scudetto in his first season in the capital, but admits he still felt guilty about abandoning ‘his’ city.
“I felt terrible when I went to Roma, because I hadn’t fulfilled the expectations of the Florentines,” Batistuta lamented as he received honorary citizenship for Florence.
“I’ve always considered Florence as my girlfriend. I don’t have to explain my love for this city.”
The mayor of Florence, Dario Nardella, explained the decision to honour Batistuta.
“As well as being a great champion, Batistuta always expressed great love and gratitude to this city.
“Three of his four children were born in this city, and he comes back here periodically even though Argentina is very far away.
“He’s an ambassador of the culture and image of our city, to have someone who has linked his life and his family to this city is a great opportunity for us.
“If Gabriel hasn’t forgotten Florence, we certainly haven’t forgotten him.”