Roberto Baggio praises coach Carletto Mazzone for reviving his career at Brescia — a reminder that managerial changes can spark striker resurgences. Betting angle: consider short-term form boosts for forwards under new or inspirational coaches and favour over-goals markets in fixtures featuring creative attackers, as Baggio argues modern rules increase scoring opportunities.
Roberto Baggio pays emotional tribute to Carletto Mazzone
Roberto Baggio said he would have “given his life” for Carletto Mazzone, crediting the football coach with rescuing his playing career when his transfer value had fallen to zero. Mazzone called Baggio after a difficult spell at Inter and handed him a lifeline at Brescia, launching what Baggio described as “four extraordinary years.”
From zero transfer fee to career revival
Baggio recalled training alone all summer and feeling unwanted before Mazzone’s phone call. He admitted he had considered returning to Vicenza, where he began his career, but chose to keep playing after Mazzone asked simply what he wanted to do. “I want to play football,” Baggio answered — and that decision revived his form and reputation.
On World Cups, the brutality of the past and VAR
Baggio reflected on painful World Cup experiences and argued the modern game, with VAR and stricter protections, would have suited him better. He described past football as “brutal,” noting players often didn’t know where blows would come from and defensive walls were effectively closer than the set distance.
Why attackers would thrive today
Baggio suggested legends like Maradona and Sinisa Mihajlovic would score far more in today’s game, even saying they “would have scored five goals a match.” The point underlines his belief that officiating and rule enforcement have made the modern game more favorable to attacking players.
Warning over Italian youth and team continuity
Baggio warned that Italian football needs people who allow local talent to play and flourish. He argued that importing players isn’t always the solution and that teams should build a backbone of players who have grown and played together for years, giving young Italians real opportunities to develop.
Key takeaways for clubs and supporters
Baggio’s account is a reminder of the transformative power of coaching, the changing dynamics of the modern game, and the long-term value of investing in domestic talent and continuity within squads.
Williamson returns for Arsenal, held by Man Utd
Roberto Baggio says he would have given his life for his ex-coach Carletto Mazzone: ‘He...
Football Italia
