Gianluca Vialli confirms he is not yet free of cancer, or the ‘unwanted guest’ as he calls it, but hopes to ‘be here for many more years.’
The former Juventus, Sampdoria and Chelsea striker is currently working as part of Roberto Mancini’s staff with the Italy squad, fresh from winning UEFA EURO 2020 this summer.
Vialli has become something of a mentor for the players, who credited him with stirring locker room speeches during the tournament.
“I feel good, but my journey is not yet complete,” Vialli told reporters at a book launch event in London.
“The unwanted guest, as I call it, is still here with me. At this moment, I am in maintenance mode. The tumour is still there. At times it is more noticeable, at others less.”
Vialli reassured everyone that he is doing a lot better and aims to remain part of the Azzurri staff for a long time.
“I will keep fighting, because I want to be here for many more years. I want you to have to put up with me for a long time to come.
“I take that strength from my family, friends and all those who give me such courage.”