Florence, Italy – May 27: Giuseppe Rossi of Italy during a training session at CoverCiano held in Florence, Italy on May 27, 2014. (Photo: Claudio Villa/Getty Images)
Giuseppe Rossi revealed why he “cryed every night” at Palma Academy, was “surprised” by Manchester United’s Sir Alex Ferguson, and was behind the anecdotes in Roy Keene’s autobiography.
The striker was one of great hopes in Italian football and had a flash of sparkle, but his career was ruined by a string of injuries issues.
Born in New Jersey to Italian-American parents, he came to Palma Youth Academy at the age of 12 and was snapped by Manchester United.
Rossi wasn’t ready for life at Palma Academy
“I didn’t want to go, but I didn’t want to disappoint my dad, so he and I moved to Salsa Maggiore, and my mother and sister Tina remained in Clifton, New Jersey,” Rossi told La Gazzetta Delo Sports.
“It was a struggle, I was shy, introverted and had a hard time making friends. The teacher thought I was just there for football, so I didn’t help at all. I cried every night until my mother visited. Being on the pitch was the only shelter.”
When he joined Manchester United at the age of 17, Rossi worked with legendary coach Alex Ferguson.
“He was a surprise because he was not only a tough guy, but also a paternal figure who was affectionate and polite and knew how to treat young players like gems.
“In training, it was something like this brutal pace and strength, something I was used to, I had no friends in training. Lots of shaking, kicking, attacking. I quickly realized I had to do it to gain respect in that squad.
Rossi revealed that he was behind the anecdotes in Roy Keene’s autobiography, even if he was not named.
“Keane wrote that he told the young Italian player not to hand over the ball at once in training.
“Well, that kid was me. And I don’t remember that at all!
Rossi recently celebrated his career on Pepito Day with many of his former teammates.
Post navigation
