Aldo Serena has taken time to reflect on his long and varied career as one of Italy's prominent footballers, sharing fascinating anecdotes and insights about past events and relationships with renowned players. Serena, who graced the fields of iconic clubs such as Juventus, Inter, and Milan, spoke candidly during his recent interview with Corriere della Sera, painting vivid pictures of both cherished memories and challenging encounters.
Reflecting on his time at the 1990 World Cup, Serena recalls it as one of the most painful moments of his career. The semifinals pitted the Italian national team against Argentina, led by the legendary Diego Maradona, at the San Paolo stadium—a venue filled with fervent local fans cheering for their hero. The game ended tied after extra time, plunging the two teams to penalties. When it was Serena's turn, he recalls, "Mi ha creato dei problemi, penso di avere avuto una crisi di panico. Avevo le gambe durissime... non ricordo nulla dell'errore, né di tutto quello che è successo dopo, un blackout di due giorni." His missed shot was saved by goalkeeper Sergio Goycoechea, crushing Italy's hopes of advancing—an incident etched painfully in his memory.
Despite the setback, Serena takes solace mightily from his relationships with teammates over the years. One of his closest companions on and off the field was Nicola Berti, whose friendship he describes as "therapeutic." Serena notes, "Io portavo solidità ed equilibrio; lui mi ha tirato fuori la leggerezza e la spensieratezza." Their bond extends beyond football, providing him with balance during competitive times.
Among his footballing idols, Michel Platini features prominently. Serena admits to admiration, saying, "Ero innamorato di Platini per come giocava: aveva tutto quello che non avevo io," acknowledging the skill set he longed to emulate. This reverence for Platini starkly contrasts with references to some tense relationships from his past, particularly with Marco Van Basten and Carlo Ancelotti. Serena recounts how Van Basten once threw sand at him during an altercation, leading to unresolved tensions. Even Ancelotti, who once spat at Serena on the pitch, had moments of grace; post-match, he offered Serena compliments, hinting at the complexity of relationships built within the world of football.
Serena’s career narrative reflects both the gravity of competition and the deep friendships forged throughout his time, illustrating how relationships can shape one’s career. He admits, though winning is just part of the sport, it’s the connections with people like Berti and the memories of his experiences, both great and painful, which remain with him long after retirement.
The dynamics of playing for rival clubs brought different emotions. When comparing his experience between Turin and Milan, he observes, "Torino guarda al passato e io da nostalgico mi sono trovato benissimo. Milano guarda al futuro, brucia tutto." This sentiment emphasizes how differently cities and fans approach victory and sportsmanship.
An encounter with Bruce Springsteen during the peaceful setting of August 1995 added another layer of nostalgia to Serena’s story. The iconic musician entered the famed Radetzky bar as Serena battled with his own fame. "Ma non voglio disturbarlo..." Serena recalls, reflecting on his hesitation to approach the rock star. It captures the essence of admiration, the awe of stardom, and perhaps the humbleness Serena feels, having crossed paths with such greats.
Ending the reflective account, Serena acknowledges the marked impact of events like the missed penalty, stating, "Io me lo sono perdonato, perché per andare avanti devi chiudere la porta. Però resta la parentesi peggiore della mia carriera: tornando indietro, cambierei il lato del tiro." Such honesty shows the deep emotional scars he has carried but also highlights the resilience athletes must possess as they continue their journeys post-retirement.
With the wisdom gleaned from his experiences, Aldo Serena offers fans and aspiring players alike more than just tales from the pitch. His insights deliver messages of friendship, rivalry, personal growth, and the indelible marks left by success and failures alike. The narrative of his life is one of spirit, connection, and the undying love for the beautiful game, elements he hopes will encourage others to pursue their passions with tenacity and respect.