Renzo Ulivieri, the 83-year-old president of the Associazione Italiana Allenatori, has opened up about his battle with serious health issues which took him through months of hospitalization and reflection. Speaking candidly to the Corriere della Sera, Ulivieri disclosed the harrowing experience of suffering from grave intestinal problems, admitting, “Me la sono vista brutta. Quattro mesi in ospedale e due a casa, tre operazioni per un problema grave all’intestino, per fortuna adesso risolto. Mi sono dovuto confrontare con la morte, che mi ha marcato stretto, come un difensore arcigno. Ho perso 14 kg e ho temuto di non farcela.” This translates to, "I had to confront death, which marked me closely like a tough defender. I lost 14 kilograms and feared I wouldn’t make it.”
Ulivieri's story is one of resilience. He revealed how his health crisis unfolded last year. While watching a national team game at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, he took ill and received immediate care at the renowned Santo Spirito hospital, where he praised the staff for their exceptional treatment. “La mia fortuna è stata che mi sono sentito male... e ho anche fatto un bilancio della mia vita, che considero essere stata bella: non mi sono arricchito, ma ho guadagnato bene e ho fatto quello che mi piaceva fare,” which means, "Fortunately, I fell ill... I evaluated my life, which I believe has been beautiful: I didn’t get rich, but I made good money doing what I loved."
After this life-changing ordeal, Ulivieri has taken the time to reflect on his life and accomplishments. He has had various experiences throughout a long coaching career, earning respect across the football community, and he shares how the pause forced him to revisit his choices and direction.
His personal life saw significant changes too; after his recovery, he married his partner, Manuela, who is the mother of his third daughter, Valentina. This new chapter added joy to his life during such trying times.
Considered by many as the heart of the Italian coaching community, Ulivieri expressed his determination to continue serving as president of the Associazione Allenatori. “Qualcuno potrebbe dire che sono vecchio, ma dentro sento di avere lo spirito di un ragazzino. E poi non ho scelto da solo. Anche i miei compagni di viaggio... mi hanno spinto a prendere questa decisione, al pari del consigliere federale Beretta," he stated, indicating his intention to seek re-election. This translates to, "Someone might say I’m old, but inside I feel like I have the spirit of a teenager. I didn’t choose alone. My fellow companions also pushed me to make this decision, like the federal advisor Beretta." This reflects his belief not only in his abilities but also his commitment to the future of Italian football coaching.
Ulivieri has led the Associazione for over two decades and intends to implement changes to benefit not just the association but the wider football community, emphasizing the importance of well-trained coaches. He has shared his vision consistently about how every team affiliated with the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) should have qualified, certified coaches at the helm.
Looking forward post-recovery, Ulivieri is buoyant about his new endeavors, hinting at progressive ideas including promoting 'walking football', which aims to engage older participants and those wanting to keep fit without the rigors of traditional football. He explained how it provides opportunities for seniors or stressed parents from the sidelines to stay active. This reflects his continued passion for sports and healthy living, showcasing his belief in football’s accessibility for all ages.
This year, Ulivieri is driven to leave no stone unturned within the association. His leadership during these turbulent times has inspired many, paving the way for fellow coaches and ensuring football remains inclusive and vibrant for future generations. Despite his battle with health, he remains resolute: the work of the Associazione and its impact on football is far from finished.
