Unconfirmed but very sad news about Luca coming through.

Mr Parkers Dogbite ★ (06/01/2023 at 09:35:21)

Hope it's not true - much MUCH too soon :(.

Sex Robot From The Future (06/01/2023 at 09:36:40)

Gut wrenching ! Absolute hero.

LarryDavid (06/01/2023 at 09:36:48)

Just saw that. Terrible news. ..... What a wonderful person he was. And a tough tough battle against one of the worst cancers.

RIP.

MarkD (06/01/2023 at 09:37:17)

R.I.P Luca one of my first ever heroes in the late 90's sides ..... I hoped he would pull through this time :(

gammaray156 (06/01/2023 at 09:38:07)

Horrible news. Total legend and he has fought an inspirational ..... battle these last few years

exiled in devon (06/01/2023 at 09:38:27)

Oh no Luca has passed. RIP..

House of Blues (06/01/2023 at 09:40:15)

RIP Luca legend .

oldgeezer (06/01/2023 at 09:40:17)

RIP Vialli ..... An absolute legend and an all time great
Those goals against Tromso forever in my memory

Bluetrainspotter (06/01/2023 at 09:41:11)

Was in the Stretford End for that. Mental. Probably still my favourite goal.

25 Blue Caravans (06/01/2023 at 09:41:44)

:( RIP Luca.

God Is ODJ (06/01/2023 at 09:42:38)

Gutted. My favourite chelsea era. RIP Luca.

The Crow (06/01/2023 at 09:42:50)

Thanks for everything Luca. So many great memories. Just thank you. RIP .

FRANKLY MR SHANKLY (06/01/2023 at 09:42:51)

Ahhh gawd. Very sad :-(.

25 Blue Caravans (06/01/2023 at 09:43:36)

Poor Luca. Horrible disease cancer. What a great footballer and a great man.

Tyrone Shoelaces ★ (06/01/2023 at 09:43:36)

Rest in peace big man ..... Taken far too young. Legend and absolute hero of mine.
Non mollare mai

trashcansinatra (06/01/2023 at 09:44:01)

Vialli; one of the absolute top tier legends at this footie club for me. Took over at a ..... Pivotal moment and fulfilled a childhood dream for many of us.

Gone far far too soon.

★lexcoates13 (06/01/2023 at 09:44:55)

People throw the legend word like confetti now-a-days... Luca was one. ..... 'CHEER UP LUCA WE LOVE YOU'

RIP big man.

JTsleftfoot (06/01/2023 at 09:45:24)

Very sad. A great player and a great man. .

MHL13 (06/01/2023 at 09:45:29)

My favourite player RIP..

Greekblueboy (06/01/2023 at 09:45:37)

The game has lost a true legend and an absolute gent ..... R.I.P. Luca - thank you for the memories

Sex Robot From The Future (06/01/2023 at 09:46:19)

RIP to the great vialli keep those pearly white gates open:(.

Mickey greenways army (06/01/2023 at 09:46:39)

No :-(. What a gentleman. What a player. Loved him..

Ricardinho (06/01/2023 at 09:47:31)

Awful sad news ..... Legend RIP

His name is Tommy Baldwin (06/01/2023 at 09:47:44)

Absolutely gutted to hear the news about Vialli.. ..... One of my favourite ever Chelsea players but more importantly an absolute gentleman from every single account I've heard. RIP to a true Chelsea legend

Ze Germans (06/01/2023 at 09:48:00)

I'm in shock I never realised he was in such a bad way - RIP Gianluca Vialli.

Middle of the Shed (06/01/2023 at 09:48:12)

such sad news. loved the man. never forget when we won at o/t and sang ..... when the ball hits the back of the o/t net its vialli and loved him as our manager . i think im correct in saying he was in charge when wise scored that goal at milan and he came out at the end cheer all us fans; what a lovely man sadly missed

ossieisgod (06/01/2023 at 09:48:16)

Oh no - what a loss ..... An absolute legend with a great attitude. Remember seeing him close-up leading the warm ups in a pre-season game at Northampton fantastic attitude and desire. RIP Luca

Ceteris Paribus (06/01/2023 at 09:48:21)

NO! :( .

BerkshireBlue (06/01/2023 at 09:48:29)

Rest In Peace Luca Vialli. .

WhiteWall (06/01/2023 at 09:48:31)

RIP Luca - One of our greatest players and one of the great men in World Football. ..... What a tragic loss.

Rollover (06/01/2023 at 09:49:32)

RIP Luca - a lovely man - thx for the memories.

gnome of zurich (06/01/2023 at 09:51:24)

RiP Luca. One of my favourites. Great character and such a likeable character. :(.

ReverendJim (06/01/2023 at 09:51:27)

R.I.P. Gianluca.

JJ (06/01/2023 at 09:51:32)

Chelsea 4 Liverpool 2 - FA Cup 96/97 - double by Luca remember it like yesterday ..... What a comeback.

JTsleftfoot (06/01/2023 at 09:51:43)

RIP Luca. And Absolute gent and top man. Loved him! .

tapas (06/01/2023 at 09:51:53)

So many to choose from in that era he held his own against the likes of Flo Zola Ruud ..... Wisey and the rest.

Thoughts and fond memories to all who knew him and Italy more broadly. What an absolute legend he was for them. He departs as a Champion of Europe for club and country.

★lexcoates13 (06/01/2023 at 09:52:46)

RIP Gianluca - met him when he was Watford manager ..... Lovely man

Hertsblue (06/01/2023 at 09:52:51)

We have lost an absolute gentleman and a legend ..... Rest in peace Luca :((

oldboy (06/01/2023 at 09:52:55)

Neither did I...... ..... I'm absolutely gutted.

Wolfie (06/01/2023 at 09:53:35)

He fell in love with Chelsea and England itself. Great guy on and off the pitch. .

FRANKLY MR SHANKLY (06/01/2023 at 09:53:53)

RIP Luca. Amazing that a player and person like you played .....
and managed this club and had such a love for it.

You were part of the good times and success coming back to this club.

If Big Petes Happy (06/01/2023 at 09:54:32)

RIP Gianluca. Highly talented player and a truly thoughtful individual. Loved his book ..... 'The Italian Job'.

TN Dave (06/01/2023 at 09:54:50)

A phucking tragic day. Love you Luca RIP legend..

pinkfloydblue (06/01/2023 at 09:55:32)

Im speechless after reading his comment ..... Should never be allowed on here again.

Greekblueboy (06/01/2023 at 09:55:35)

Goodbye Luca and thank you ..... Iconic player around Europe and loved by everyone at this club

Deco and the Bunnymen (06/01/2023 at 09:55:45)

He always seemed to have a smile on his face whenever I saw him. Rest in Peace. :(.

Made in SW9 (06/01/2023 at 09:55:54)

RIP Luca you leave us with some fantastic memories. Absolute Gent. Sad day....

des-alley (06/01/2023 at 09:56:23)

Last nights result pales into insignificance ..... Thank you Luca for a wonderful period in our history

batt45 (06/01/2023 at 09:57:07)

R.I.P Luca he was one of my first ever heroes in the late 90's sides ..... and he even had the chance to be our manager for us and was in charge for our first ever campaign in the Champions League..

gammaray156 (06/01/2023 at 09:57:13)

The word Legend is often banded about too freely in football but Gianluca ..... was a Chelsea legend both on and off the pitch RIP mate the pleasure was all ours.

★ Far Cry Toff (06/01/2023 at 09:57:16)

RIP luca. .

True4kinblue (06/01/2023 at 09:58:09)

RIP Luca. When you joined Chelsea it took my love of the club to another level ..... When you managed us you gave me my favourite years as a fan. You'll never be forgotten at CFC

santonvegas (06/01/2023 at 09:58:20)

Just heartbreaking. What a huge buzz when he came to us. ..... Ruud was legendary and other worldly but Vialli felt like a stone cold superstar when we got him. He gave us so much as player and manager and for me part of the best time to be a Chelsea supporter. So glad I got to see him play. RIP Luca.



McCulto (06/01/2023 at 09:58:24)

Luca played such an important role in our club's history...... ..... Put us on the road to becoming a Champions League qualifying team....we had a superstar quality in that late 90's team.....and ultimately why Roman bought us.

The Man in the Blue Flannel Suit (06/01/2023 at 09:59:33)

Luca :( Awful news what a player and bought us some great memories as a manager too ..... True Chelsea legend.

KHST ★ (06/01/2023 at 09:59:50)

RIP My man absolute gentleman ! Heaven has gained one in a million x.

BlueDiamond (06/01/2023 at 10:00:05)

Only just saw the news devastatingly sad one of my heros ..... RIP Luca

BogardesWallet (06/01/2023 at 10:00:21)

Sad dayLuca was a gentleman and everything you wanted in a footballerlegend.

LateToTheParty (06/01/2023 at 10:00:25)

Ruud and Luca signings were both "pinch me" moments ..... We've become a bit of a conveyor belt for superstars since then but yeah - nothing has come close since

Sex Robot From The Future (06/01/2023 at 10:01:02)

RIP .

Headscratcher (06/01/2023 at 10:01:30)

RIP Luca. Absolute gentleman fantastic player and genuine Legend..

Freo ★ (06/01/2023 at 10:01:51)

RIP Lucamy first memories supporting Chelsea was during his time here..legend.

BlueMunster (06/01/2023 at 10:02:35)

Absolutely. A bit miffed at last night's result but now forgotten. This news is ..... really shocking. He was a year younger than me!

Tyrone Shoelaces ★ (06/01/2023 at 10:02:36)

Luca RIP .....

Middle of the Shed (06/01/2023 at 10:03:05)

So sorry to hear about Luca... ..... Those two goals against Liverpool are etched in my memory
So sad to lose such a gentleman x

Helen kellers eyes (06/01/2023 at 10:03:30)

A memory - bad first half - Luca provides a glass of champagne at half time - great second half!.

bravehutch (06/01/2023 at 10:03:35)

Vicenza second leg. ..... That cross for the Zola header from memory.

And then of course Hughes flicking on to himself for a trade mark half volley


MarkD (06/01/2023 at 10:03:41)

Vialli goals - ..... R.I.P legend

elseychelsea (06/01/2023 at 10:04:12)

When the ball hit the back of the old Trafford net it's vialli.

Mickey greenways army (06/01/2023 at 10:04:26)

\o/ When the ball hits the back of the Old Trafford net.........

25 Blue Caravans (06/01/2023 at 10:04:32)

RIP Gianluca :( - A real legend for us and a great person too. He will always be a true blue..

shez (06/01/2023 at 10:04:45)

RIP to Luca. A true gentleman and legend.

Blueskov (06/01/2023 at 10:05:32)

Great memory .. ..... loved watching him take them apart at old trafford one of my favourite aways that was

His name is Tommy Baldwin (06/01/2023 at 10:05:41)

So sad what a player what a ma what a gent ..... As much as I loved zola I loved watching Luca even more. Ran the line better than anyone else Ive seen .

Loved the champagne before his first match as manager and wish he could have stayed for many more years.

Tragic early loss of a true gent.

luca behind you (06/01/2023 at 10:05:56)

So sad. RIP Luca. .

Eddie Needswhisky (06/01/2023 at 10:06:00)

RIP Gianluca Vialli who was one of the main reasons why I came to support Chelsea. ..... When I was a kid I saw Vialli play in Europe against one of my local team's rivals. He did one of his trademark overhead kicks during the game and I was hooked.

When I moved to Italy aged 11 I could follow his career closer whilst he was still at one of the clubs he loved most: Sampdoria. He soon moved to Juventus and won the European Cup there as captain.

I was a fifteen-year-old kid in London by then when he came to Chelsea. I remember the first 1996-1997 fixture a match against Coventry City. True to form he did his overhead kick and the ball hit the post. In the next few days I got a Chelsea school bag as a present and I never looked back. I still remember trying to imitate his overhead kicks in the back garden at home. I never quite made it though not for lack of trying.

He was by far my favourite player in that famous Gullit team. When he took over as player-manager I was overjoyed and my bond with Chelsea really solidified by then.

He came across as a real gentleman a legend of our club of course - and the fans took to him so well. That chant "Vialli Vialli" still rings in my ears and he fully deserved it too.

When he became Watford manager I sent him a long email detailing much of the above and wishing him luck in his new job. I thought that that would be that. Two weeks later I got a reply. "Thank you for such a wonderful email" or words to that effect. "I cannot wait to get started in my new job. All best wishes Gianluca Vialli".

A true legend of the game a true legend of our club. Words will never do him justice but the respect he had not only from me but from all our fans speaks for itself. And yes - he was one of my main reasons as written above why I came to support this amazing amazing amazing club.

RIP Gianluca Vialli.

CFC Genius (06/01/2023 at 10:06:13)

He scored against all the big sides... ..... his goals against Liverpool in the FA cup the goal at Old Trafford and the night he put all the Tromso defenders on their arse in the snow were my highlights

His name is Tommy Baldwin (06/01/2023 at 10:07:14)

Tromso away :-).

CFC Genius (06/01/2023 at 10:07:15)

Keeping it simple others say it better than I do. RIP lovely Luca what a gent what a player. Loss to the world..

Winch (06/01/2023 at 10:07:29)

Terry to Vialli in the 2nd to last goal proper passing of the torch moment!.

★lexcoates13 (06/01/2023 at 10:08:11)

RIP Luca. He was the manager for my first match at the Bridge. Aboslute legend.

Icey (06/01/2023 at 10:08:31)

Absolutely gutted to hear that news come through. Happy New Year . . . . . . . just like the old year. ..... RIP Luca one of the greats. Player and human being one of the real greats and at 58 too.

Carefree Blue (06/01/2023 at 10:08:51)

It was prematch against Woolwich. One of my fave ever games.

FRANKLY MR SHANKLY (06/01/2023 at 10:08:58)

RIP Gianluca ..... What an absolute legend. As a kid I used it go to the training ground and he even went in goal and had a kick about with us. A truly amazing man and a Chelsea legend. RIP Luca x

cfcscotty (06/01/2023 at 10:10:12)

Yeah that was heroic in the snow.

Tyrone Shoelaces ★ (06/01/2023 at 10:10:38)

RIP Luca ..... I posted the other day that I had been fortunate enough to meet him several times and spend a little time in his company at Harlington.

My profile pic is from Southampton away 1996 when he was newly with us and is a cherished memory

stick ★ (06/01/2023 at 10:10:59)

RIP Luca great player and great man .

bezz (06/01/2023 at 10:11:43)

Yep - and the ball went in off his posterior :-).

CFC Genius (06/01/2023 at 10:12:07)

R.I.P Vialli ..... Think every Chelsea fan of my age will remember Troms class man top player so sad

blueboy2012 (06/01/2023 at 10:12:39)

R. I. P Luca such sad news.

Terrys all sold (06/01/2023 at 10:14:23)

To think both Pele and Gianluca have passed away in a week and both have gone before their mothers. ..... Rest in peace Luca

Carefree Blue (06/01/2023 at 10:15:27)

Martin Tyler just speaking on SSN about Luca. Properly choked up. .

MHL13 (06/01/2023 at 10:16:04)

When the ball hits the back of the old Trafford net ..... It's Vialli!

Hampton Blue (06/01/2023 at 10:16:27)

Oh No! My wonderful Luca Vialli ..... He was seriously the beginning of the Revolution. RIP Luca.

BLUEFILMFAN (06/01/2023 at 10:18:05)

RIP Luca.

snaff (06/01/2023 at 10:18:13)

Remember watching him score his first goal ..... from the benches as a kid. Seeing the likes of Gullit and Vialli playing for us having watched them on channel 4 for years was magic.

Hampton Blue (06/01/2023 at 10:19:26)

Great player terrific manager a true gent humble ..... humourous he came across as someone that really cared for the club. Thanks for the fantastic time Luca RIP.

chopper sarris and his sarriballs (06/01/2023 at 10:20:12)

Gianluca Vialli an absolute honour and privilege ..... that we are able to say he played for our team. He seemed to regard Chelsea in high affection and we all return that many many fold.
Hed already accomplished so much before he joined us but with his love and passion for football he gave us his all and together with others laid foundations for the "modern" Chelsea we are now.
Thank you Luca God speed x


scandi (06/01/2023 at 10:20:18)

RIP Luca. What an awful start to the day and year to hear this news .

Fletch (06/01/2023 at 10:20:46)

Sad day for all blues fans.

britanniaentrance (06/01/2023 at 10:21:38)

Luca you were and are a legend. Not just in football but in life... ..... It takes tremendous resilience to cope with that form of cancer and he coped amazingly. He was still working with the Italian national team less than four weeks ago.

Family statement concludes: "Il suo ricordo e il suo esempio vivranno per sempre nei nostri cuori". His memory and example will live forever in our hearts RIP

Avanti (06/01/2023 at 10:22:16)

Serving champagne to the players before arsenal away ..... Liverpool in the cup trompso away 4 against Barnsley smoking in a press conference the cameo appearance at Wembley 97 stuttgart 98. The Old Trafford nutmeg. What memories.

Hampton Blue (06/01/2023 at 10:22:28)

R.I.P Big Vialli.A true legend..

blue steamahead (06/01/2023 at 10:26:31)

So many memories like the 2 goals in Tromso. RIP Luca..

Krakovian (06/01/2023 at 10:27:37)

RIP Luca un bravo e uno di noi. Great guy full stop. Pleasure to have crossed paths a few times.

nipper ★ (06/01/2023 at 10:27:52)

One of the greatest to wear our shirt. RIP..

KermitTheFrog ★ (06/01/2023 at 10:28:19)

So sad to hear the news. Luca such a lovely man. ..... Legend. :-(

geordiegirl (06/01/2023 at 10:29:57)

RIP legend so young..

Greekblueboy (06/01/2023 at 10:30:24)

What a complete hero and a lovely man. RIP. Not an exagerration to say his ..... arrival at Chelsea changed the course of his life.

Mr Parkers Dogbite ★ (06/01/2023 at 10:30:29)

I place Luca in the pantheon of the greatest few players in our history. ..... For the combination of his striking brilliance the pioneering way in which he came to English football and then brought us further success as manager his influence on our younger players at the time and the gentlemanly way in which he dealt with everyone with whom he crossed paths.

He deserves to be spoken of - in terms of impact on this club - in the same way as Hoddle Gullit Zola JT Cech Lampard.

He will be terribly missed by all Chelsea fans to whom he has given some of our most wonderful memories.

Rollover (06/01/2023 at 10:31:49)

One of our most memorable European nights and it wasn't anywhere near a final ..... Albeit we went on to the final and to the big man picking up the trophy.

★lexcoates13 (06/01/2023 at 10:32:24)

My sons middle name LucaRIP .

Zola50 (06/01/2023 at 10:32:36)

Lovely tribute from the club .....

MarkD (06/01/2023 at 10:33:15)

Rename a stand a statue or both? .

★lexcoates13 (06/01/2023 at 10:34:39)

RIP legend! Such Gentleman. :(.

JuanLano (06/01/2023 at 10:35:59)

RIP Vialli.. 2 goals against Liverpool Fa cup 1997.

capey (06/01/2023 at 10:36:15)

My favourite Chelsea team. What a man. .

Dr Pangloss (06/01/2023 at 10:36:16)

RIP Vialli .

ISHOTTOMMYLANGLEY (06/01/2023 at 10:37:07)

One for his contribution to CFC as a player and the other for his contribution as a manager.

Sex Robot From The Future (06/01/2023 at 10:37:13)

RIP Vialli .

Fulham Broadway (06/01/2023 at 10:37:19)

Yep. Got a tear in my eye reading that.

Mr Parkers Dogbite ★ (06/01/2023 at 10:37:33)

Vialli was the absolute epitome of class..

Butch (06/01/2023 at 10:37:37)

RIP Vialli. So so sad.

Longtime Lurker (06/01/2023 at 10:38:10)

RIP Luca x.

Cragger72 (06/01/2023 at 10:38:14)

Totally stunned numb on hearing of Gianluca Vialli's passing..... ..... absolutely lost for words.

Voltaire returns (06/01/2023 at 10:39:03)

RIP - Luca is a legend and the epitome of charisma and class. Very sad day .

Drogbas Soul Glo (06/01/2023 at 10:39:34)

Same here. What a lovely man..

MarkD (06/01/2023 at 10:41:25)

A statue I think.

Mr Parkers Dogbite ★ (06/01/2023 at 10:41:39)

His age of just 58 makes it even more upsetting .

MHL13 (06/01/2023 at 10:41:45)

RIP Luca a thoroughly lovely person ..... who got the connection with the supporters. A pleasure and an honour to have been able to watch him play and manage Chelsea. He had everything apart from hair that you want in a player and human being. He even managed to make being bald look cool. Bless and Godspeed Luca.

Exiled Blue ★ (06/01/2023 at 10:41:49)

Un grande saluto a un mito di calcio italiano. I nostri pensieri sono con te e la tua ..... moglie.RIP Gianluca rispetto da un vero gentiluomo !

Ticinoblue (06/01/2023 at 10:42:14)

Day's like today puts football into perspective.

Hertsblue (06/01/2023 at 10:42:21)

Those Thursday nights.. ..... Vialli on the orange ball on a snow covered pitch will always come to my mind. Oh how we could do with a striker like him now.

Top bloke top professional and always came accross as a true Gentleman. RIP Gianluca.

Magic Hat (06/01/2023 at 10:42:27)

Just a very sad day..

Baldfatlimey (06/01/2023 at 10:42:33)

Honestly RIP legend. This has hit home. One of my first heroes from a time I started ..... Going to the Bridge on a regular basis. RIP!!!!

NoHasselJimmy (06/01/2023 at 10:43:32)

For all he done in a Chelsea shirt and as manager my main memory will be ..... how he treated everyone at the old Harlington training ground. Every autograph signed a cheerful hello for everyone and one time he called back a couple of younger players who walked past some kids waiting for autographs.
A class act and true gentlemen.
Sleep well Luca.

Mr Fied (06/01/2023 at 10:43:34)

It would be nice company to keep in front of the stadium..

★lexcoates13 (06/01/2023 at 10:44:01)

Exactly! There aren't any chances to miss ..... We still skirting round the main issues

LionHeart (06/01/2023 at 10:45:41)

It just shows you how well liked Luca was that Souness and Tyler were both choked up ..... about his passing

gammaray156 (06/01/2023 at 10:45:58)

Souness on Sky a short time ago. He was visibly upset and had to stop the interview. ..... Martin Tyler similar. Clearly loved loved by everyone who knew him.

MHL13 (06/01/2023 at 10:46:28)

A life in pictures... ..... click here

Tyrone Shoelaces ★ (06/01/2023 at 10:47:15)

He'd probably have enjoyed that :).

Mr Fied (06/01/2023 at 10:47:28)

I'll forever remember that big smile and glint in his eye. A true gentleman. RIP Vialli.

FeckemAll (06/01/2023 at 10:48:00)

Souness played with him at Sampdoria .

bezz (06/01/2023 at 10:49:10)

Absolutely. On and off the pitch he was in a class of his own..

Freo ★ (06/01/2023 at 10:49:53)

RIP Luca very very sad this one hits hard as did Terry Hall recently .

bumstead (06/01/2023 at 10:50:33)

Yep. He said Luca was one of the most influential people he'd met in his life. ..... Really touching interview

MHL13 (06/01/2023 at 10:50:34)

Luca's Chelsea as player and manager was when I properly "fell" for football ..... in general. I'd been a Chelsea fan since early 90's almost by default as it was us or Spurs at my school at the time and my old man (Arsenal) made clear which was more acceptable.

But that side and Luca Gullit etc..it was the first time kids my age could look at Chelsea and see something that could be spoken of in the same context as United Liverpool etc.

So so sad. He's part of the DNA of the club and will be sorely missed.

Fitzchiv (06/01/2023 at 10:50:52)

So feckin young too. Loved that fella. RIP Legend..

Flange (06/01/2023 at 10:51:56)

Vi-alli Oh-Oh!!.

Unstuck in the Pyrenees (06/01/2023 at 10:52:07)

Sounds tribute to Vialli .....

nameitall (06/01/2023 at 10:52:09)

RIP Luca. An absolute legend:((((..

Tucker (06/01/2023 at 10:52:15)

That's the saddest thing. No age at all .

MHL13 (06/01/2023 at 10:52:23)

Sky just showing him with Butch hitting me hard seeing both of them on screen .

bezz (06/01/2023 at 10:53:08)

Ditto both taken way too soon ..

★ Far Cry Toff (06/01/2023 at 10:53:51)

RIP Luca one of us forever .

westcountryblue (06/01/2023 at 10:54:26)

As others have noted 'This hits hard'.

Flange (06/01/2023 at 10:54:27)

Always and forever a blue RIP Gianluca ..

Lord Chelsea (06/01/2023 at 10:54:31)

Good of Souness to come on touching tribute .

bezz (06/01/2023 at 10:54:41)

Assolutamente!!!! Granda Gianluca sempre nel nostre cuore.

Ticinoblue (06/01/2023 at 10:54:44)

Just said the same elsewhere. Last night with Luca up top ..... We win by 3 or 4 goals.

Especially as he lived for the big games.

★lexcoates13 (06/01/2023 at 10:55:03)

Choking up .

batt45 (06/01/2023 at 10:55:41)

Wonderful tribute that article on Chelsea site : ( .

elseychelsea (06/01/2023 at 10:56:09)

No goals in the team. Draw at best :-(.

oldgeezer (06/01/2023 at 10:56:27)

Blimey I'm in tears walking the dog . Seeing ..... souness there just shows what a man and friend of course to us all

chopper sarris and his sarriballs (06/01/2023 at 10:57:28)

That does say it all..

Unstuck in the Pyrenees (06/01/2023 at 10:57:43)

RIP Gianluca. Such sad news. I hate cancer :( .

Alex07 (06/01/2023 at 10:57:47)

Test .....

bezz (06/01/2023 at 10:57:47)

Vialli - this game must be on a lot of people's favourite/classic games list. ..... Look how he celebrated his goals...



Chelsea Blues (06/01/2023 at 10:57:52)

Can't you give it a rest for a while .

chopper sarris and his sarriballs (06/01/2023 at 10:58:24)

An amazing career .

bumstead (06/01/2023 at 10:59:11)

Luca RIP so sad .. feeling gutted ..... God bless Luca

Carefree since 1972 (06/01/2023 at 11:00:57)

Yep and read out on Sky.

ISHOTTOMMYLANGLEY (06/01/2023 at 11:01:03)

One of this club's sliding doors moments. If we'd lost that match who knows ..... whether we'd have won a single pot over the years?

Mr Parkers Dogbite ★ (06/01/2023 at 11:01:15)

Hits hard all the tributes are touching.

BogardesWallet (06/01/2023 at 11:03:00)

RIP Luca great player but most of all a great man.

weallthukingateleeds (06/01/2023 at 11:03:05)

Bought my two boys snide Juventus ..... shirts with Vialli on the back when he joined us. Took them to games and he became an absolute hero to not only them but me as well. We all had an infinity ( is that the correct word sorry) with him.

chopper sarris and his sarriballs (06/01/2023 at 11:04:52)

No. 1 for me..

Dr Pangloss (06/01/2023 at 11:07:10)

If this is not what we need now I dont know what is RIP .....

Carefree since 1972 (06/01/2023 at 11:07:42)

Rest in peace Viali there Chelsea ..... Legend. Player Manager those were the days.

ToreAndraeFlow (06/01/2023 at 11:08:49)

Absolutely. What an atmosphere that day. Strangely his miss before half time probably helped us. If they'd gone in ..... 2-1 up instead of 2-0 they might have been a bit more wary second half.

That second half was probably my favourite half of football ever.

ReverendJim (06/01/2023 at 11:09:09)

Brilliant days ..... Luca & Franco

RIP Luca

MikeS (06/01/2023 at 11:10:18)

Awww that is sad RIP Gianluca Vialli! .

BornAblueTwat (06/01/2023 at 11:10:27)

RIP Gianluca.

TrueBlue13 (06/01/2023 at 11:10:49)

Vialli ..... RIP
Once a blue always a blue

Blueboy (06/01/2023 at 11:11:17)

Just seen the news about Luca. Sad..

non-stick (06/01/2023 at 11:11:47)

Lump in throat .. welling up in gym ;-) sad sad news .

Carefree since 1972 (06/01/2023 at 11:11:50)

What a gentleman never forget Barnsley and Tromso.

sandgrounder3 (06/01/2023 at 11:12:40)

What a player what a man RIP Lucy Vialli.

Diego Costas Stare (06/01/2023 at 11:13:17)

Truly gutting! Carried himself with so much class and for me was a link ..... between old Chelsea and the start of the new. He'd been a superstar but took to Chelsea when and London life right away and gave a lot of respect back to us fans.

Rotter (06/01/2023 at 11:14:54)

He'd probably find that funny so don't worry. All of us are choked up about this.

Tyrone Shoelaces ★ (06/01/2023 at 11:15:38)

He really was one of the most likable people in football. Had a quick glance at the comments on the BBC story and there is universal respect admiration and sadness

Sex Robot From The Future (06/01/2023 at 11:16:31)

Still remains my favourite game and brought a smile to me face when I needed it ..... Feeling quite emotional today every time I see any videos of Luca.

When you think of Luca Zola and Hughes being in the same squad and compare that to what we have today

luca behind you (06/01/2023 at 11:17:50)

RIP Luca! ..... So sad! Now I know how it must have felt for my dad's generation when ex-players like Osgood went :-(

Wessex Blue (06/01/2023 at 11:18:59)

Get the tissues ready it's going to be so ..... emotional at the Bridge next Saturday. Ossies death was the only other one that hit me like this. So sad.

chopper sarris and his sarriballs (06/01/2023 at 11:18:59)

Stepped of the plane home to see the tragic news about Luca Vialli. Despite us ..... knowing that he was desperately ill - bloody hell - this one has hit hard!

He was a key part in the development of Chelsea into the team it is today. There can't be a Chelsea supporter Italian football fan or any right minded person who didn't love the bloke.

The world is a poorer place today without him.

RIP Luca and thoughts with his family

bairns (06/01/2023 at 11:20:18)

Yes i was at the ossie game ..... Everyone got there hoyrs bedore the game paying respect with flowers at the gates
Think i will do the same for this great man

batt45 (06/01/2023 at 11:20:42)

Genuinely feel sad and choked about Luca ..... Loved him lovely man

FamousCFC (06/01/2023 at 11:22:44)

So tragically sad about Luca a true gentleman and top professional what a loss. .

Alec Busheel (06/01/2023 at 11:24:38)

I'd hate for it to be made about us because he was so loved everywhere ..... But I think even the most ardent fans in Italy and at his other former clubs would acknowledge; at Juve he won titles he was the captain but he was perhaps one of many great players there at the time.

At Chelsea he won trophies as a player then as player-manager and also (mostly just) as manager. He was everything to this club for a special few years.

★lexcoates13 (06/01/2023 at 11:25:22)

Awful new about Luca. Top man got picture with him at POTY areal gent .

leftbackcoady (06/01/2023 at 11:26:16)

My heart has broken after hearing the terrible news re Luca. ..... RIP legend. We will love you forever.




Romans Soldier (06/01/2023 at 11:26:54)

Legends both taken too soon.

Mr Parkers Dogbite ★ (06/01/2023 at 11:27:47)

Two absolute gentlemen..

MarkD (06/01/2023 at 11:27:53)

Gutting..

Ricardinho (06/01/2023 at 11:28:54)

I hoped he was making a full recovery. He looked ..... better the last time I saw him. I heard recently he had taken a turn for the worst.

This is very sad news and my thoughts go out to his family.

What a man.

Romans Soldier (06/01/2023 at 11:28:56)

:-( Reunited now hopefully. ..... God's got a bloody good team up there.

Romans Soldier (06/01/2023 at 11:29:52)

Not really general football seems pretty insignificant today other than reliving ..... beautiful memories of Luca

batt45 (06/01/2023 at 11:29:57)

A nice big permanent mural of Luca somewhere outside the ground would be good..

Ricardinho (06/01/2023 at 11:30:22)

RIP Luca! A legend who transformed the club laying the foundation of modern Chelsea ..... pre-Roman! Gone but never forgotten!

SpecialOne (06/01/2023 at 11:30:41)

2 of the finest never forgotten ..... Rip great men

ossieisgod (06/01/2023 at 11:31:01)

RIP Luca. Great player. Great manager.

Isgood (06/01/2023 at 11:31:14)

RIP Gianluca and thank you ..

BlueHayes (06/01/2023 at 11:32:30)

Luca the man loved us & we loved him .

batt45 (06/01/2023 at 11:33:11)

Just seen the news awful RIP Gianluca.

JimmyFloydBottleBank (06/01/2023 at 11:33:39)

Nice little club are Chesterfield. Very friendly folk. ..... I covered a match there a few years ago.

Romans Soldier (06/01/2023 at 11:34:05)

All true - a proper bloke.

BlueHayes (06/01/2023 at 11:34:12)

A part of my Mom and I supporting the club ..... Started following in 94 - that 96-98 period was like a wonderland with the names we bought in. Mom loved Luca to bits.

If you're ever down have a google for some of the stories about Luca's pranking. He was a brilliant prankster - Sacchi in particular hated it. Then this with Souness.

"Graeme Souness remembers the repercussions after he had dared to push Vialli into a frozen lake for a laugh during their time together at Sampdoria. Revenge came swiftly. And it left Souness terrified to touch anything in case it was booby-trapped.

Luca lined Souness's underwear with itching powder and embrocation. He then sprayed shaving foam into his shoes and cut the legs off the trousers of his pounds 600 Armani suits."

RIP Luca - you are missed.

Shemmie (06/01/2023 at 11:35:23)

Apart from his goals Luca's effort in chasing every ball even when there was nothing on impressed me greatly. This CL ..... winner running to the corner flag to win the ball must have made his team mates think Jesus if he puts it in like that I'm really gonna have to put a shift in too and I truly believe that is where 'today's' Chelsea (maybe not the last 12 months ;o) ) has earned it's stripes.

sound system sean (06/01/2023 at 11:35:24)

If my daughter had had a brother he would have been named Luca. RIP..

mrtamblingman (06/01/2023 at 11:35:43)

Not a fan of souness but fair play .

Care3 (06/01/2023 at 11:36:28)

I was listening to Talk Sport in the car on the way home and they spoke to Ross ..... Wilkins who talked about LUca's friendship with his dad and the support he gave him when Ray died. And that in recent messages from him he didn't speak about a "battle" against cancer - it was a "journey". I could hardly see for the tears!

bairns (06/01/2023 at 11:36:46)

RIP Gianluca..

MrBlueSky★ (06/01/2023 at 11:37:37)

What a night this was... .....

Ricardinho (06/01/2023 at 11:37:54)

RIP Gianluca.

Wooody (06/01/2023 at 11:39:18)

'When the ball hits the back of heaven's net that's Vialli!.

sound system sean (06/01/2023 at 11:39:27)

Ah Luca. Ci vediamo..

Perillo OBE (06/01/2023 at 11:39:46)

Got all the autographs the ..... Day before the match as lucky enough to stay in the team hotel and had a few beers afterwards with some of the players not going to the euros

ossieisgod (06/01/2023 at 11:40:31)

Oh for a man of Lucas ability character etc ..... in the current squad

leftbackcoady (06/01/2023 at 11:41:28)

Love these words from Luca .....

tapas (06/01/2023 at 11:46:32)

Desperately sad news but you are certainly allowed to discuss other subjects.

Butch (06/01/2023 at 11:47:03)

Rip Luca and thanks. .

Soames (06/01/2023 at 11:47:27)

Lovely - got to go I seem to have something in my eye ..

BlueHayes (06/01/2023 at 11:47:40)

RIP Gianluca thanks for so many wonderful moments.

Triple Ozzie The Legend (06/01/2023 at 11:48:47)

He knew what it was all about. He got it. I feel dreadfully sad at his death..

Ricardinho (06/01/2023 at 11:49:34)

a niche favourite memory but man what a cross in one of THE great nights v Vicenza .....

Under the Bridge (06/01/2023 at 11:50:10)

well said J. That clip of him I just posted 11:46 says all you need to know about him. ..... Had me in tears.
A true gentleman.

tapas (06/01/2023 at 11:50:38)

I hope that the club can put together a fitting and worthy tribute to the great man for the Palace game. Personally I ..... will be raising a glass or three of champagne before the game and then singing his name to the rafters. I'm actually not too keen on champagne but I think it will be fitting beverage and probably what he would've wanted. I will raise my glass to Gianluca and toast his greatness and give thanks for how blessed we all were to have been touched by his presence in the time that he was on this earth with us.

Thank you Gianluca for all you did for our club your club. For being a truly great ambassador of all that is great about Chelsea Football Club. You were a gentleman a fantastic player and a great manager who brought us numerous honours. But the biggest honour of all was Chelsea FC having you here.

Condolences to his wife and children. To all his family and loved ones. The world has just lost another light and is a little bit darker.

Get that champagne on ice and get ready to raise your glasses to the great man. Gianluca Vialli. Forever Blue.

Persil (06/01/2023 at 11:51:13)

Really moving tribute by Souness ..... Fair play to him. He's clearly hurting

oldboy (06/01/2023 at 11:52:05)

He had perspicacity and wisdom in spades. Pure class on and off the pitch. .

Rollover (06/01/2023 at 11:54:49)

Beautiful! What a loss.

Mr Parkers Dogbite ★ (06/01/2023 at 11:57:13)

We all have our favourite players-but was any Chelsea player more loved than Luca?.

Butch (06/01/2023 at 11:57:25)

No of course there is no lump in my throat....cough cough!!.

Butch (06/01/2023 at 11:59:04)

What a fantastic team with Vialli we had what happy days and memories they ..... gave us we were very lucky indeed and Vialli got us as fans and as a club and I am truly gutted...
Life is so cruel Luca like Ray great guy Chelsea legend RIP

JimmyFloydBottleBank (06/01/2023 at 11:59:54)

What a guy.

JimmyFloydBottleBank (06/01/2023 at 12:00:29)

The over-riding memory of Luca's time here and that era was football was fun. .....
Yes we had success in winning trophies but the whole feeling around the time was one of enjoyment and fun that group of players created.

Luca was a huge part of that.

If Big Petes Happy (06/01/2023 at 12:00:33)

In terms of sheer love for a player I think only Zola comes anywhere near close. .

Rollover (06/01/2023 at 12:01:19)

I'd forgotten about that. My mate popping up there behind Luca at the start! .

Persil (06/01/2023 at 12:01:40)

I'm not sure I realised he was the first ever player-manager to win in Europe.

Mr Parkers Dogbite ★ (06/01/2023 at 12:03:28)

Agreed. ..... I was in school doing all the team celebrations they were.

IMITATEDneverDUPLICATED (06/01/2023 at 12:04:44)

That video should be shown to the squad on a regular basis..

House of Blues (06/01/2023 at 12:04:51)

Blimey.... ..... Forgotten your history already?

Chelsea Blues (06/01/2023 at 12:04:55)

I always remember him saying when he arrived that he wanted to be a ..... Chelsea Legend. Well he certainly is.

Funny how some things stick in the memory.

MHL13 (06/01/2023 at 12:05:07)

A class act all round. Gutted ..

Blueheart (06/01/2023 at 12:05:33)

Definitely one of my favourite times supporting the Club..

Freo ★ (06/01/2023 at 12:07:02)

Video from the club .....

MarkD (06/01/2023 at 12:08:43)

And how very relevant those words are to the situation we are in just now! ..... He came to the English game relatively late - but he got it and he got us!

bairns (06/01/2023 at 12:08:47)

Yep. A wonderful time..

Ricardinho (06/01/2023 at 12:09:35)

Didn't he also use 'When the fish are down' ? It's great I use that all the time :).

TN Dave (06/01/2023 at 12:09:44)

Rest in Peace Luca thank you for touching our lives..

Choppers Studs (06/01/2023 at 12:10:50)

Probably age related but that was my favourite ever era. It was such a brilliant ..... culture and personality.

McCulto (06/01/2023 at 12:11:37)

One of Karn's videos featuring the late great Luca Vialli. I'm choked. .....

Better Call Saul (06/01/2023 at 12:11:39)

Absolutely gutted. RIP Luca.. ..... ... Thanks for all the memories.

Blue on Wheels ★ (06/01/2023 at 12:14:39)

I don't think it's an age thing L. It felt like a change in the culture of football ..... around that time. We had this eclectic mix of players - silky exciting foreign players - coming from the still rather exotic (to us) Serie A ... with their wizardry. Combined with our own homegrown characters.

We were stylish we were brave we were different!

I can remember going to Italy on holiday back then and being amazed at the number of kids wearing Chelsea shirts. Unheard of before!

bairns (06/01/2023 at 12:15:42)

As has been said elsewhere the football was fun. And there were smiles aplenty. We need to ..... get that back to the Bridge as it's been too sterile too boring and too snarly for too long. Football with a smile and a swagger is what people want.

Persil (06/01/2023 at 12:16:19)

RIP :(.

Space hopper (06/01/2023 at 12:16:32)

Villi reminds me of how fresh success felt ..... Rather than how entitled we feel to be top four and winning a cup every season.

John Phillips (06/01/2023 at 12:17:09)

Amazing times and an amazing human being.

Headscratcher (06/01/2023 at 12:17:44)

It was just such a beautiful time and you felt an affinity and it was like one club. ..... We've had similar with the JT/Frank/Didier era but that was just much more fun and literally carefree. Vialli Ruud Wise Zola Le Boeuf Eddie and Frank RDM. We're lucky. Hope you're keeping well J.

McCulto (06/01/2023 at 12:19:04)

Is one of the strongest memories i have following Chelsea. Watching that team transition ..... us into a club to be feared again and play some fantastic football. Could not believe we had signed legends like him and we were lucky to watch him play and be part of all our lives and our love for the club.

Blueskov (06/01/2023 at 12:19:16)

Absolutely agree. RIP Luca thanks for being one of our greatest. .

KevDonn (06/01/2023 at 12:19:17)

It also hearkens back to a team who I think really *got* the club & its fans and played ..... their hearts out for the club even if they were perhaps not the best XI playing in the country. Oh how we could do with some of that commitment nowadays.

Rollover (06/01/2023 at 12:19:23)

Thank you Luca. :-(.

Andysdogspot (06/01/2023 at 12:20:23)

Never seen Souness emotional fair play to him and it just shows what a great man ..... Gianluca Vialli was - super tribute

Headscratcher (06/01/2023 at 12:23:10)

Ive been teary eyed and so sad! ..... Its hit harder than I thought!
R.I.P Luca

Hue (06/01/2023 at 12:24:17)

RIP to the legend Vialli.

Luvin M (06/01/2023 at 12:25:18)

very emotion sends a shiver down my spine .

Middle of the Shed (06/01/2023 at 12:26:10)

Those teams from 96/97 to 99/00 ..... Might not been the best footballing side but I loved their team spirt and fun RIP a legend Vialli godbless thanks for the memories

Mr McGraw (06/01/2023 at 12:26:53)

Absolutely love the tributes from Juventus and Sampdoria in this article. What a man... ..... click here

Ricardinho (06/01/2023 at 12:31:27)

I think this game sums up that late 90s feel good factor .....

MarkD (06/01/2023 at 12:33:37)

Vialli - He made our opponents look like this: ..... (Yes that game again)


Chelsea Blues (06/01/2023 at 12:35:14)

RIP Luca and thank you the yellow kit the snow the gloves the ball the ..... goal and the celebrations is a memory that'll will live with me forever.

A sad sad day today.

Papa Elf (06/01/2023 at 12:35:26)

Me too. Wonderful man..

Docs Diamonds (06/01/2023 at 12:37:22)

Vialli's Vino Veranda..

Chelsea Blues (06/01/2023 at 12:37:59)

Proper baller .... RIP.

Big Ron Manager ★ (06/01/2023 at 12:38:04)

Agree great days .

leftbackcoady (06/01/2023 at 12:39:01)

Agree loved most of the players ..... Cant warm to many now

leftbackcoady (06/01/2023 at 12:39:49)

3 main memories of Luca Vialli ..... 1. Those 2 v Liverpool (4-2)
2. The 2 goals in the snow v Tromso.
3. That cross for Zola v Viacenza to make it 2-1.

As a Manager.

His first game in charge against Arsenal LC Semi. We came out on fire that night with some special goals. I didn't know at the tine they toasted his new role with champagne before kick off. Class act. RIP Luca and tha k you.

Docs Diamonds (06/01/2023 at 12:45:58)

97/98 possibly my most enjoyable season .

luca behind you (06/01/2023 at 12:54:05)

Not ashamed to say that I've shed a few tears this morning. And it's not just for Luca ..... it's all the memories that he shared with us.

Mr Parkers Dogbite ★ (06/01/2023 at 12:54:45)

RIP Luca. Cheers mate. .

Tea for the Tinkerman (06/01/2023 at 13:06:37)

RIP Luca. Sad news indeed ..... Off for a heavenly kick about with Ossie Butch and all the other Chelsea legends weve lost.

Dont Mention Ze VAR (06/01/2023 at 13:18:18)

Vialli Vialli Vialli !.

oooooohThiagoSilva (06/01/2023 at 13:31:37)

Vialli was my childhood ..... Really felt the news this morning.

One thing is that he left such an impression on me growing up.

One of my favourite Chelsea players and remember being sad when he left the club.

The away game Vs Troms.
The 4-2 win Vs Liverpool.
The 5-3 loss to Man Utd in 1998.

A player manager I doubt we'll see that again at the top level of football.

Those really were great times as a young Chelsea Fan.

Sad day

RIP Luca


bluepill (06/01/2023 at 13:31:56)

Loved the Tromso game ..... Remember Gullit complaining about the lines not being seen on the pitch.

RIP Luca

bluepill (06/01/2023 at 13:34:30)

Luca Vialli ..... Had the pleasure to meet Luca at Steve Clarke testimonial at the Cafe Royal.
What a class act.
A true gentleman.
Dressed immaculately.
At the time he was being linked to a move to Southampton under Souness.
Ruud not using him.
Begged him not to leave us.
So skillful with the workrate of a horse (thoroughbred)
If I remember correctly his first game as player manager was 2nd leg League Cup game v Arse. I believe the team shared a glass of champagne before the match. It worked.
Who can forget Tromso
RIP Gianluca and god bless



Sexton Blake (06/01/2023 at 13:38:22)

Sad news about Vialli. RIP to one of the gentlemen of the sport..

MattNY (06/01/2023 at 13:44:20)

RIP Luca you absolute Legend. You'll never be forgotten..

In The True Blue Blood (06/01/2023 at 13:44:28)

Gianluca Vialli. ..... Legend. The man the player. Sincerest Condolences to your wife children family & friends. R.I.P. A true Blue Legend always.

tamblingdonevilla (06/01/2023 at 13:54:05)

Such a sad day. But its nice for everyone to all be on the same page for once. ..... Everyone feels the same and has the same sentiments. Its sad but yet warming to all be as one today.

So sad but reading everyones tributes and words here its so comforting. He was universally adored.

Seeing the pictures and watching the videos there is no doubt for me that football certainly seemed a lot more fun in that Chelsea era. And Luca was at the heart of it. RIP boss.

Johnny Tabasco (06/01/2023 at 13:54:46)

He loved us.we loved him.RIP Luca.

Blue aye ★ (06/01/2023 at 13:59:07)

88 games for Chelsea..packed a lot into those matches for us.

Butch (06/01/2023 at 14:12:47)

A football Legend in Italy and England Not many can say that. RIP Luca.

ENGLAND AWAY (06/01/2023 at 14:18:53)

Beautiful Luca RIP .

kerrygold (06/01/2023 at 14:20:33)

Turning up at Harlington for pre-season in 1996 you knew something had changed. ..... Yes Gullit was an important player but the mobs of Italians desperate to see Luca was quite something. 6 year old Adam was in awe of this man and immediately demanded his first shirt have Vialli on the back despite never actually watching him play yet. Proud hell always be my first. I met him that day and was delighted me and my brother got a picture only to get them developed a few weeks later and find Vialli was drinking out of a cup at the time of the picture being taken! Add that to the great picture of Gullit we got where our legs made the picture but not his head. My Mum never was a good photographer.

That hat trick v Barnsley and the two goals to win the Liverpool FA Cup tie stick out on the field but off it a gentleman is the only way to put it.

Paraphrasing Dennis Wises shirt a few years later Rest In Peace Luca we love you.

AdamMHL (06/01/2023 at 14:24:55)

Luca Hoddle and Ruud Gullit and Wise (in my opinion) were instrumental in starting the ..... Chelsea revolution. Vialli showed the difference great players make to a club
RIP

choppersgranddad (06/01/2023 at 14:31:43)