Former Italy striker Francesco Flachi returned to the pitch yesterday with Eccellenza side Signa, playing his first competitive game after the end of a 12-year ban for cocaine.
The 46-year-old was under contract with Sampdoria in 2007 when he received a two-year ban after testing positive for cocaine. The Blucerchiati terminated his contract and Flachi made his return to the pitch two years later.
However, after barely six months with Brescia, he tested positive for cocaine again and got a 12-year ban that terminated a few weeks ago.
The former striker returned to the pitch again yesterday playing with Eccellenza side Signa.
Eccellenza is a non-professional league and the fifth division in Italy. Flachi started the game and played 30 minutes, as agreed with his coach Enrico Cristiani.
Former Sampdoria coach Walter Novellino attended the game in the stands a took a picture with his ex-striker at the end of the match.
“I felt dazed before the game, I haven’t slept fro a week because of the excitement,” Flachi said after the final whistle.
“I am so happy now and I want to thank all those who are making me feel like a footballer again.
“The journey has just begun, let’s see what will happen. In May, I will begin a coaching course.”
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