Alejandro "Papu" Gomez is ready to make a comeback in the world of football after a lengthy doping suspension that has kept him off the pitch since November 2022. Speaking in an interview on the new Gazzetta dello Sport YouTube format, Trequarti, Gomez expressed his eagerness to return to Serie A once his ban ends in October 2025. The 37-year-old former Atalanta star has been keeping himself occupied during his time away from the game, spending quality moments with his family and indulging in his passion for padel, sometimes playing three matches in a row.
"The Papu retires, Alejandro does not," Gomez stated, highlighting the distinction between his public persona and his personal life. The Argentine international has been through a transformative journey during his suspension, which he described as both challenging and educational. Gomez was suspended after accidentally ingesting a syrup intended for his son while playing for Sevilla, a mistake that has kept him sidelined for nearly two years.
Despite the setback, Gomez remains optimistic about his future in football. His agent's phone is reportedly buzzing with inquiries from clubs interested in his availability and intentions for the upcoming season. "Some clubs have called my agent to ask how I am doing, when my suspension ends, and what my plans are," he shared. "I want to wait until the end of the season to understand which team I might fit well with, and then prepare for pre-season training to be at my best by October. I can still make a difference; my foot is still hot," he joked.
Gomez has named several Serie A teams that he believes would suit his playing style, including Bologna, Fiorentina, and newly-promoted Sassuolo. He appreciates clubs that utilize a trequartista and two wingers, which aligns with his strengths as a creative midfielder. "This year, I really like Sassuolo; they play modern, entertaining, and offensive football. I also think of Italiano's Bologna and Palladino's Fiorentina, who are doing very well. And of course, Atalanta remains close to my heart," he remarked.
Looking ahead, Gomez is confident that Atalanta will secure a top-four finish in the Serie A this season. "I don’t believe the match against Milan is decisive, although both teams need points. Atalanta will finish in the top four," he asserted. Gomez is also optimistic about the future of his former coach, Gian Piero Gasperini, suggesting that if Atalanta qualifies for the Champions League, Gasperini is likely to stay. "There’s a lot of talk about a possible departure, but I doubt the coach will leave if we secure Champions League qualification. If he does leave, Palladino, Italiano, or Thiago Motta could continue his project effectively," he added.
Reflecting on his past, Gomez revealed that he was once a target for AC Milan, with club executive Adriano Galliani attempting to sign him in 2017. "Galliani valued me. The first time he tried to bring me in was in 2017, during the last days of Berlusconi’s Milan, with Montella as coach. Ultimately, I stayed in Bergamo because Atalanta had an ambitious project, my family was happy, and I had become one of the leaders of the team. I also turned down Lazio, while Inter and Atletico Madrid sought me in 2013; Simeone even invited me to lunch to discuss a move, but Catania’s asking price was too high, and they signed Villa instead," he reminisced.
As Gomez prepares for his return to football, he is motivated and eager to start a new chapter in his career. His passion for the game remains undiminished, and he is determined to prove that he still has what it takes to compete at the highest level. With clubs already showing interest, the next few months will be crucial for Gomez as he navigates the transition back into professional football.
In conclusion, Alejandro Gomez’s journey from suspension to potential resurgence is a testament to his resilience and commitment to the sport. As he looks to re-enter Serie A, fans and clubs alike will be watching closely to see where the talented midfielder lands next. With a clear vision for his future and a desire to continue making an impact on the field, Gomez is poised for an exciting comeback.
