RIP Paolo 'Pablito' Rossi, Italian football great and World Cup winner

Paolo Rossi, Italian football great and World Cup winner, dies aged 64

Words fail me. 'Pablito' was my childhood hero; a hero that brought the World Cup back home in 1982. Of all the tournaments, it was by far the most memorable and emotional.

He wasn't just one of the best forwards in the world, but a gentleman and an Ambassador to the sport.

With a heavy heart... R.I.P. Pablito ⚽🏆💔

I remember that World Cup final well.

He was totally amazing throughout the World Cup.

World Cup winner, World Cup Golden Boot, Ballon D’Or and European Player all in the same year.

RIP Paolo, you had a knack of being in the right place, at the right time. A proper striker’s instinct.

Now with Paolo and Diego, Heaven soccer team will be unbeatable.

a reply to: Encia22

Sad day! I remember well that game of 1982, Italy was stellar in those days, with Rossi I remember Gentile (defense), Bruno Conti (attack) and some more. Big players are leaving this place, sad.

Rest in peace Paolo!