Gigi 29/6/06:
"Talking about football, matches and emotions at the World Cup is so hard for me right now, it’s almost impossible. All my thoughts are with Luca Pessotto, my friend and colleague in so many battles, as well as his family, his wife Reana and his girls. Zambrotta and Del Piero went to see him in hospital, and the news they brought back, which we were all anxiously waiting, has been quite comforting. Luca now has to win the most difficult match of his career and his life. He’s a born fighter and a moment of weakness can’t cancel out the strength of a man who holds such firm principles. Pessotto was capped several times by Italy and we’ll be playing our next match against the Ukrainians for him. This has come as a big blow that won’t be easy for us to get over. The news came as a huge shock to us all, but now we have one more reason to get a good result in his honour. All the Italy players —not just those of use who know him from Juventus — were saddened by the news. Anyone who has played with or against Luca will have had the chance to get to know him and discover what a fine human being he is. Everybody loves him and everyone feels close to him at this difficult time. I also hope that our small tribute from far away will help him recover. It’s at times like this when I think it’s important to realise that there are a lot of people around who appreciate you. Pessotto knows that he can count on us now and especially later, when he’s getting his life back on track. I don’t want to say any more, because words just can’t express what I feel. Luca’s never been much of a talker himself, but what little he does say is always well worth listening to. So, come on, Luca, you can make it. We’re with you all the way."