The Argentine icon makes a surprise visit to Roma’s training ground, reliving the Scudetto memories and sending an emotional message to the fans
More than two decades later, history walked back through the gates of Trigoria.
Gabriel Omar Batistuta made a surprise return to AS Roma’s Fulvio Bernardini training center, 23 years after his last appearance there. No announcements, no build-up — just an unexpected visit that immediately sent waves through the Roma world.
Batistuta, accompanied by former teammate Vincent Candela, was welcomed at Trigoria by club officials, staff, and players. It was his first time back since January 2003, when he left Roma to join Inter — an exit that never fully closed the emotional chapter between the striker and the club.
Speaking to Roma’s official channels, Batistuta didn’t hide the weight of the moment.
“It’s been a long time — 23 years. But it’s always special to come back to a place where you were happy. I had fun here, and I collected the rewards of a long career by winning a historic Scudetto.”
A Roma chapter written in gold
Batistuta’s bond with Fiorentina remains lifelong, but his Roma years are carved into Serie A history. In the 2000–01 season, the Argentine striker scored 20 league goals as Roma stormed to the Scudetto, finishing with 75 points and igniting celebrations across the city.
“The city exploded with joy. It was an unbelievable feeling,” Batistuta recalled.
He also reflected on the strength of that legendary squad:
“We were an incredible group — Totti, Cafu, Samuel, Emerson, Montella, Candela, Delvecchio. We led the league almost the entire season and won the title at home, in front of our fans. A day I’ll never forget.”
Asked to pick a defining moment from that campaign, Batistuta pointed to a crucial turning point:
“The two goals against Parma at the end of the first half of the season. We won a match that hadn’t gone our way, and that’s when we truly understood we could go all the way.”
A nod to the present — and to Gasperini
Batistuta also took time to comment on Roma’s current project under Gian Piero Gasperini, praising both the style and mentality of the team.
“Roma are playing well. Gasperini has given the team a clear identity and an attacking mindset. I’ll come back to the Olimpico soon — maybe in May, maybe even for the derby.”
Before leaving Trigoria, Batistuta sent a final message to the Roma supporters:
“Roma fans have always shown me so much affection. I want to send them all a big hello.”
His signature on Roma’s last Scudetto still stands. And on a quiet February afternoon, the past briefly returned — not as nostalgia, but as a reminder of greatness.
