The FIGC and president Gabriele Gravina join in the condolences of the family of Vincenzo Marinelli, historic manager of the Under 21 national team who passed away today at the age of 88.
Here is the full note from the Football Federation with the words of president Gravina:
“Born in September 1936 in Carpineto della Nora (PE), entrepreneur and great football fan, first as vice-president and then in the role of president he linked his name to Pescara, taking the Abruzzo team from Serie C to Serie A. After having held the position of Lega advisor and vice-president of the LNP from 1986 to 1990, in the early nineties he began his long journey in the staff of the Under 21 national team, which he followed for over thirty years in the role of head of delegation and accompanying manager He took part in all five editions of the European Championships won by the Azzurrini and in four Olympics, including the 2004 one in Athens which saw Italy win the bronze medal.”
“With the passing of Vincenzo – the memory of President Gravina – I lose a brotherly friend. He was an enthusiast for life and a great football fan. I shared wonderful years with him in the Under 21 national team, of which he became a point of reference off the pitch, during which I was able to appreciate the consideration he placed in young people, in the talents of the future. He gave them all suggestions as a father even before being a manager, standing out for his great generosity. I like to remember him with a smile on the day he won the Olympic medal in Athens in 2004, an emotion that will unite us forever.”