The world of football mourns the passing of Sergio Giunta, the legendary masseur who dedicated over two decades of his life to both Torino and Juventus. Giunta, affectionately known as 'Baffo' for his characteristic mustache, passed away at the age of 75, leaving behind a legacy etched deeply within the annals of Italian football.
An official statement from the Torino Football Club expressed heartfelt condolences, stating, "Il Presidente Urbano Cairo e tutto il Torino Football Club - si legge in una nota dei 'granata' - sono vicini con affetto alla famiglia Giunta nel ricordo di Sergio Giunta, massaggiatore del Torino dal 1980 al 1994 dapprima nel Settore Giovanile e poi in Prima Squadra, dove si è sempre distinto per le sue doti di competenza, disponibilità e umanità," which translates to "President Urbano Cairo and the entire Torino Football Club extend their affection to the Giunta family, remembering Sergio Giunta, the club's masseur from 1980 to 1994, first with the youth team and then with the first team, where he always stood out for his competence, availability, and humanity."
Giunta began his football career as a youth player with Juventus before briefly playing for the Aosta Calcio. After realizing he wouldn’t make it as a professional player, he found his true calling as a masseur and physiotherapist. Giunta made his mark as he joined the Torino staff, where he worked from 1980 to 1994, before transitioning to Juventus, where he served until 2007.
His time at Juventus was nothing short of spectacular; Giunta played a pivotal role in the club’s numerous successes during his tenure. It's here where he encountered some of the biggest names in football, including legends of the game. He was known not only for his professional abilities but also for the rapport he built with players. His empathy and intuitive ability to sense players' moods contributed to the special bond he forged with many.
Ezio Rossi, former Torino player and coach, shared warm memories about Sergio, stating, "Da giovane avevi giocato nella Juve, Sergio Vatta tuo grande amico, ti portó al Toro nelle vesti di massaggiatore. La tua professionalità, umanità, correttezza e soprattutto la tua simpatia hanno fatto di te un Grande Uomo," which translates to, "When young, you had played for Juve, Sergio Vatta your great friend brought you to Toro as masseur. Your professionalism, humanity, correctness, and above all your friendliness made you a Great Man." Rossi’s tribute echoed the sentiments of many who regarded Giunta not just as part of the team’s infrastructure but as family.
Beyond his considerable technical expertise, it was Giunta's approachable nature and zest for life which endeared him to players and fans alike. Giunta, who lived through triumphs and heartbreaks with his teams, once said he felt it was his job to help players physically and mentally, always on hand to lend support and care, whether it was as they came off the pitch or during training sessions. His extensive knowledge of fitness and recovery became integral to the success of the teams he worked for.
The Torino and Juventus communities have responded to the news of his passing with deep sadness, acknowledging the void his departure leaves within their ranks. Fans and players took to social media to share stories, reflecting on the indelible mark Giunta left on their lives, reminding us of the human side of the game often overshadowed by the star players.
Funeral services for Sergio Giunta are scheduled to be held privately on December 20, 2024, adhering to the family's wishes for privacy during this difficult time. Both clubs have requested fans to pay their respects to Giunta’s memory, honoring his years of dedication and the deep impact he has made on countless individuals through football.
Giunta's contributions to Italian football stretched far beyond the scoreboard. His legacy will live on through the stories shared by players and fans, ensuring he is remembered as one of the true heroes of Torino and Juventus alike. Sergio Giunta didn't just massage muscles; he nurtured hearts and built relationships.
