GABRIELE   BATISTUTA

Born : 01.02.1969

Height : 1m85

Weight : 73 kgs

Position : Forward

Club : Roma

Played for Santa F., Newell's Old Boys (88-89), then River Plate, Boca Juniors, and Fiorentina from 91 to 2000. Helped Argentina to Copa America triumphs in 91 and 93.

Like every player, Batistuta's career beginnings weren't easy. At first in Firenze, like in River Plate and Boca, things were not easy : a different country, different customs, different language, differences with his teammates. Also he needed a teammate that would supply good passes for him to be able to do what he was capable of doint. His strength of character, his openness and sincerity help him in smoothing whatever obstacles were thrown in his path. Bati started scoring and his goals were making a difference for his team. Meanwhile the people of "Firenze" were little by little opening their hearts to the young man with long blond hair, magical feet and agreeable character.

Batigol's myth was born and gaining in strength. However Fiorentina ended twelfth in the championship, then ended being relegated to serie B. Batistuta took command of the team. His pride, his love for the city inspired him to bring Fiorentina back to Serie A.

Back in Serie A, Bati established a new record of goals scored. This was also the year of "la bandierina" (the corner flag). An unforgettable way of celebrating his goals, and image of Batistuta that will remain forever in our minds. This year, he won the goal scoring title with 26 goals.

The season 97-98 will see him scoring his 100th goal in Seria A, another big step in Bati's career.

On february 7th, while playing against Milan, Batistuta suffered the gravest injury of his career. One taht kept him out of play for more than a month.

"The soccer has changed a lot throughout the years. I continue to play and i have fun while doint it, and what's most important, i'm helping my team to keep on going."

"I love to go fishing and hunting, those are my favorite hobbies. I enjoy flying but i see it more like something that will help me in the future, il will help sut short distances in Argentina. I also enjoy go-karts and playing tennis."