Italy legend Gianni Rivera wants to open a football academy: 'I want to teach technique, not talent-crushing tactics'.
The 72-year-old was the first Italian ever to win a Ballon D'Or, back in 1969, and at the launch of his autobiography he declared he'd like to pass on his football knowledge to the next generation.
Italy legend Gianni Rivera wants to open a football academy: 'I want to teach technique, not talent-crushing tactics'.
The 72-year-old was the first Italian ever to win a Ballon D'Or, back in 1969, and at the launch of his autobiography he declared he'd like to pass on his football knowledge to the next generation.
“I'm thinking of a new project, a football academy that will bear my name,” said Rivera, as reported by ItaSportPress. “I think it's important for kids to learn technique and the enjoyment of open play, rather than tactics, which snuff out enthusiasm and talent.
“I'm following the example of two coaches I consider to be fundamental: Giuseppe Cornara, who mentored me at Alessandria, and Nils Liedholm, who coached me in the last part of my career.
“Both of them considered a player's technique and his relationship with the ball to be essential. I'd like the kids in my academy to start from that point, from the love for technique and for the ball, as that is the essence of the sport.”