The Gentleman - by Luca Dal Monte (Hardcover)

About the Book

Book Synopsis

A VIVID, HEARTFELT ACCOUNT OF GIANLUCA VIALLI'S ENDURING LEGACY AS A PREMIER LEAGUE ICON AND LONDON GENTLEMAN.

Gianluca Vialli signed for Chelsea on a free transfer in May 1996, just two days after winning the Champions League with Juventus. An international striker at his peak, he left Italy's star-studded Serie A for a mid-table club in a fledgling Premier League. This engrossing book tells how, over just four seasons, he made London his home, transformed the trajectory of the club and helped change English football forever.

Brought to England by Ruud Gullit to bring 'sexy football' to Stamford Bridge, Vialli more than delivered. He was a class act: skilful with electric movement off the ball and a devastating finish, but also the very model of the modern gentleman-Londoner. In his philosophy and approach, he adapted the lessons he had learned in Italy to the passion and soul of the English game.

Written by his lifelong friend Luca Dal Monte, and through interviews with teammates, coaches and friends, the book reveals what was in the striker and player-manager's heart and mind. From Vialli's time at Chelsea and brief spell as Watford manager, to his struggle with pancreatic cancer, this is a gripping account of a man who left an indelible mark on the English game.

Review Quotes

"The Italian's reputation was forged throughout a stellar career in playing and management, and also by his warm and dignified personality that made him beloved by so many in football around the globe, not only team-mates but also opponents and supporters alike." --Phil McNulty, BBC Chief football writer

"One of the greats with a reputation to match" --BBC Sport

"Chelsea legend ... loved by fans, players and staff at Stamford Bridge" --Chelsea FC

"a wonderful footballer and a warm human being" --Graeme Souness

"modern striker, gifted with power and style ... the most representative player of his generation" --Marino Bortoletti

About the Author