Legendary Serie A striker Protti reveals serious illness at age 57

LIVORNO, ITALY – JANUARY 24: As a former player Igor Protti of AS Livorno greets fans during the Serie A match between Livorno and Napoli at Stadio Armando Picchi on January 24, 2010 in Livorno, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

Serie A legend of the 1990s Igor Protti has revealed he is battling a serious illness and used football metaphors. ‘I know it is a match I could win or lose, but I’ll give it my all.’

Now 57, he had until recently been working in various directorial roles at Livorno, helping the club rebuild after bankruptcy.

It was also where he ended his playing career in 2005, after also playing for Messina, Bari, Lazio, Napoli and Reggiana.

Treatment has started for Protti

Protti broke the news of his illness on Instagram, with a picture taken in a hospital bed.

“Unfortunately, just over a month ago they found a very unwelcome guest,” he wrote.

“I underwent the first surgery and next week I will begin treatment in a bid to improve the situation and be ready to have another operation in a few months’ time.

“It is a very tough match, I know full well I could win or lose, but I’ll give it my all, as always. I know that I am not alone, as I have my big and marvellous family close to me, even if they cannot all be here physically.

“Just like when I was on the pitch and felt myself part of a huge community, today I also feel all my friends and those who followed my career are by my side now.

“I thank the medical staff who are looking after me and will give me all the help I need in this fight. I also apologise in advance if over the next few months I am unable to reply to everyone, both on the phone and via Instagram.

“I send you all a strong and enormous hug.”

Protti scored 48 goals in 144 Serie A appearances, with 100 goals in 263 Serie B games.

He was crowned Capocannoniere of Serie A in the 1995-96 season at Bari with 24 goals, a title he shared with Lazio striker Beppe Signori, despite the fact his team was eventually relegated.

Protti then won the Supercoppa Italiana at Lazio in 1998-99.