Andrea Innocenti The football world has learned with deep sorrow of the passing of Sandro Mazzola, an undisputed icon of Inter Milan and the Italian national team. The former captain, who would have turned 84 on November 8th, had battled a serious illness for a long time, but remains in the hearts of fans for his elegance on the pitch and his fundamental contribution to the history of the Milanese club.
The Nerazzurri's early days and the first triumphs with Inter
Sandro wore the Nerazzurri shirt as a child, joining the youth team at the age of eight. Under the visionary guidance of Helenio Herrera, the young talent became the cornerstone of the team that dominated Europe in the 60s.
His first major achievement was a brace against Real Madrid in the European Cup final on May 27, 1964, at the Prater in Vienna, which gave Inter its first continental trophy. A few days later, the legendary Ferenc Puskás, Real Madrid's captain, described him as worthy of his father Valentino, creating an anecdote that still resonates in the annals of football today.
The conquest of the second Champions Cup
On May 27, 1965, Inter, still led by Herrera, defeated Benfica 1-0, with a goal from Jair, to win the club's second European Cup. Mazzola played a decisive match, demonstrating his ability to control the tempo of the game and inspire his teammates in crucial moments.
Personal records, championships and the national team
In the 1964-65 season, Sandro had a memorable season: he won the Serie A championship and, with 17 goals (two penalties), tied for top scorer with Fiorentina's Alberto Orlando. In total, he collected four Scudetti (1962-63, 1964-1965, 1965-66, 1970-71), two European Cups, two Intercontinental Cups, and was runner-up in the 1971 Ballon d'Or, behind Johan Cruyff.
The role in the Italian national team
Wearing the Azzurri shirt, Mazzola participated in numerous international tournaments, contributing to the victory at the 1968 European Championship. His presence was synonymous with class and determination, and his name remained in the list of the strongest players in the history of the national team.
The final chapters: management, commentator, and post-mortem tributes
After retiring from football, Mazzola continued to influence Italian football. He held managerial positions at Inter, Genoa, and, between 2000 and 2003, at Torino, his father Valentino's team. His biggest transfer coup was the arrival of Ronaldo at Inter in 1997, a purchase that heralded a new era for the club. In his spare time, he also served as a television commentator, sharing his experience with new generations.
The Nerazzurri club published a moving tribute, calling him a "Nerazzurra legend" and recalling that he spent his entire life wearing only one shirt. Vice President Javier Zanetti offered words of affection, calling him a champion on the pitch and in life. Other clubs, including Napoli, Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi, and Monza, also expressed their condolences, emphasizing his role as a "symbol of Italian football."
The memory of Sandro Mazzola remains indelible: his elegance, his successes, and his ability to inspire players and fans of all ages. His star continues to shine in the hearts of those fortunate enough to see him grace the San Siro pitch, and his name will remain a constant reference for future generations of footballers.