For Gabriel Batistuta, Fiorentina is a love etched in his heart. Yet even as the Viola find themselves in such dire straits today, no one seems to think his experience can be of use and great significance. Recently, the Argentine legendary striker spoke in an interview about his relationship with the Viola, and how he has felt almost "forgotten" all these years. Batistuta is disappointed and bitter, unable to hide the feeling of being unvalued.
“No one has ever contacted me”
Batistuta said: “A call from Fiorentina? Two owners have taken over since Cecchi Gori, and no one has ever reached out to me. This hurts me deeply. If they called me, I would feel that I haven't been forgotten, but rather remembered and valued. It would give me a new lease of life. It would mean all my sacrifices were worth it.”
“I’d be willing to step onto the pitch myself”
Batistuta said: “If possible, I’d even be willing to play on the pitch to help Fiorentina. This is how I truly feel. The people of Fiorentina love me, and I know that. Their affection for me is exactly the same as mine for them and for the entire city. I felt it when I played here, and this feeling will last until my dying day. It really will. But the fans are not the decision-makers at Fiorentina; the power doesn’t lie with them at the club I contributed so much to.”
“I don’t even know who to ask for a ticket at the club”
Batistuta said: "They haven’t considered me at all, and it saddens me. I thought I could help Fiorentina even off the pitch, with my understanding of the environment there and everything I have to offer. If I want to go to the stadium to watch a Fiorentina match, I don’t even know who to ask for a ticket. I expected a call right after I retired. I’d still be happy to get one now and accept it gladly, of course it would be a good thing, but I’m not someone who will take the initiative to beg for handouts. What I’m saying is just the reality."
