On Wednesday evening, Italian football legend and 1982 World Cup winner Francesco Graziani met with a large gathering of AS Roma supporters during a special visit to a popular establishment in Birkirkara. The former Roma and Italy forward was warmly welcomed by local fans, many of whom are lifelong Romanisti, as well as by the President of Roma Club Malta, Ray Sant.
Graziani, affectionately known as “Ciccio”, was visibly moved by the occasion and expressed his delight at visiting the first Roma supporters’ club to be established outside of Rome. Founded in 1973, Roma Club Malta holds a unique place in the club’s global community of fans.
The evening was further enriched by a surprise video message from another legendary Roma and Italy player, Bruno Conti, a close personal friend of Graziani’s. The heartfelt message drew applause and added a special touch to what was already an unforgettable night for many in attendance.
Graziani, who spent three and a half years with AS Roma during the 1980s, played a pivotal role in helping the club win two Coppa Italia titles, in 1984 and 1986. During his tenure, Roma were among the elite teams in European football, famously reaching the final of the 1984 European Cup. That final, played at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, ended in heartbreak for the Giallorossi as they lost to Liverpool in a penalty shootout.
Graziani’s visit to Malta was not only a nostalgic reunion with fans but also a hands-on experience for young aspiring footballers. Earlier in the week, he took part in a training camp held at the Melita FC grounds, in collaboration with Rising Star Scouting MT. The initiative provided a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Maltese children to train under the guidance of a World Cup-winning icon.
The event left a lasting impression on both the young participants and the devoted fans, reinforcing the strong bond between AS Roma and its Maltese supporters.
