Papu Gomez has taken the first official step in what could be one of the most remarkable comebacks in Italian football, undergoing his medicals and posing for the first time in a Padova shirt, with the contract signing expected within 24 hours. The former Atalanta icon, now 37, is set to join the Serie B side on a two-year deal with an option for a further year, worth around €500,000 plus bonuses.
The Argentinian World Cup winner, sidelined due to an anti-doping ban until October, was described by Padova’s club doctor, Luigi Munari, as being in “excellent condition”. “He’s kept himself in shape during the long months off the pitch. He’s physically sound, with no issues whatsoever. Frankly, he doesn’t look like a 37-year-old, more like someone much younger. We’re delighted; this is a fantastic signing.”
Despite not having played a competitive match since 2 October 2023, Gomez appeared cheerful and fit as he met staff and underwent his medical at the Poliambulatorio Arcella earlier today. “I’m really happy and excited by the warmth the fans and city have shown me these past few days,” he said. “Everyone tells me Serie B is a tough and long season, but I’m convinced we’ll have a great campaign.”
Padova, a once-prominent club that hit rock bottom with relegation to Serie D in 2013, is hoping to be a protagonist in the coming season. The team will travel to Pieve di Cadore (Belluno) for pre-season training next week. From 20 October, Gomez will be eligible for selection, and despite his age and time away from competitive football, the buzz around his arrival is already tangible. Local insiders are predicting a significant “Papu effect” on the club’s season ticket sales, due to begin next month.
Earlier in the day, while Gomez completed his tests, the rest of the squad visited the Basilica of Saint Anthony, led by club president Chicco Peghin. There, they presented the rector, Father Antonio Ramina, with a symbolic number 10 shirt bearing the name “S.Antonio”. Now, though, the city’s more secular hopes rest with Gomez, a player who netted 50 times in 209 Serie A appearances and may yet have one more dance left in him.
