Gabriel Batistuta: The Former Serie A Legend Who Looks Unrecognisable
Gabriel Batistuta, the former Argentine footballer who played as a striker, is a legend of Serie A. He retired from professional football in 2005, but he still has the magic touch in front of goal. Recently, he played in a Maxi Rodriguez testimonial alongside Argentine hero Lionel Messi, who scored a hat-trick on his 36th birthday. However, it was Batistuta who looked completely different as he dispatched a classy penalty into the top corner for the Newell’s Old Boys XI. With his side trailing 2-0, he stepped up and delivered from 12 yards before hugging the beaten goalkeeper.
Batistuta’s Appearance Today
The former footballer looks very different these days after appearing in an exhibition match. In those 18 years since he retired, he has ditched his iconic long locks and now has a neater clipped cut. The grey goatee could be a giveaway, but it is a lighter shade of silver these days. Batistuta was spotted at tennis’ ATP Cup in Australia back in January 2020. A photo shows the serial goalscorer watching his compatriots Argentina taking on Spain in Perth.
Batistuta’s Career
Gabriel Batistuta started his career at Newell’s Old Boys – the same club as Messi – before a year apiece with rivals River Plate and Boca Juniors. But it was in Italy where he enjoyed most of his success, spending nine seasons with Fiorentina – returning 203 goals in 331 appearances. He joined Roma in 2000 and had a loan spell with Inter Milan in 2002-03 before finishing his club career in Qatar with Al-Arabi. Batistuta won one Serie A, a Serie B, the Coppa Italia and two Supercoppa Italianas and was the top scorer in Italy’s top flight in 1994-95. The Argentina international managed an impressive 56 goals in 78 caps and lifted the Copa America twice. Only Messi, who took his tally to 98 with two in the World Cup final and now is clear on 103, has more strikes for the Albiceleste.
Batistuta’s Success in Serie A
Gabriel Batistuta is a legend of Serie A, where he scored 219 goals during his time in Italy’s top flight. He was a prolific goalscorer and had a powerful shot that made him a nightmare for defenders. Batistuta played for Fiorentina, Roma, and Inter Milan during his time in Italy. He won one Serie A title with Roma in 2001 and was the top scorer in Italy’s top flight in 1994-95. Batistuta was known for his physicality, aerial ability, and finishing skills. He was a complete striker who could score from anywhere on the pitch.
Batistuta’s Legacy
Gabriel Batistuta is one of the greatest footballers of all time. He was a prolific goalscorer who played for some of the biggest clubs in the world. His success in Serie A is legendary, and he is still remembered fondly by fans of Fiorentina, Roma, and Inter Milan. Batistuta was also a key player for the Argentine national team, where he scored 56 goals in 78 appearances. He lifted the Copa America twice and played in three World Cups. Batistuta’s legacy will live on for generations to come, and he will always be remembered as one of the greatest footballers of all time.
Conclusion
Gabriel Batistuta is a legend of Serie A who looks totally unrecognisable after ditching his iconic long locks. He retired from professional football in 2005 but still has the magic touch in front of goal. Batistuta played for some of the biggest clubs in the world, including Fiorentina, Roma, and Inter Milan. He won one Serie A title with Roma in 2001 and was the top scorer in Italy’s top flight in 1994-95. Batistuta was also a key player for the Argentine national team, where he scored 56 goals in 78 appearances. His legacy will live on for generations to come, and he will always be remembered as one of the greatest footballers of all time.