How did he attain legendary status?
There is nothing missing from Batistuta’s finishing repertoire: heading, dribbling, pace, strength, calm one-on-ones, poaching and especially long-range efforts.
For similarity in the Premier League; see Alan Shearer, as well as a sprinkle of Luis Suarez.
Serie A in Italy was the major transfer move for any player at the time of Batistuta’s prime. Impressed with the Argentinian’s capacity to lead from the front, Fiorentina signed him.
After a period of adjustment to a new country and style of play, he attained greatness, what he is known for even today.
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A statue was even built by fans. They named a star after him. Yep; you’ll need a constellation to stop this solo-star.
A reputation as ‘the animal’ proceeded him, well-earned for his knack of winning isolated, man-on-man clashes.
207 goals in 333 games is phenomenal. A 62% scoring rate is matched by few elite players. With Il Viola, he won 5 domestic cups, including a stunning Serie A trophy.
In his twilight club years he joined Roma and Inter Milan, adding a further 35 strikes to his record. Along with another top-flight title for Roma and formidable partnership with Francesco Totti.
World Cup icon
During his international career, the Argentine made 77 appearances, in addition to a magnificent 54 goals. Leaving a lasting legacy for other true icons to chase, or better.
At World Cups Batistuta solidified his footballing legacy: 10 goals in 12 games at three tournaments. That puts him joint eighth place in the competition’s all-time scorers’ list. Including three strikes on his tournament debut against Greece.
Recently he scored in a Chinese friendly match, despite apparent after effects of a demanding career. Never lifting a World Cup trophy was his fate. However, he did receive the Silver Shoe for second top-scorer 1998.
Batistuta influenced Barcelona striker Luis Suarez. The Uruguayan says of him, “a spectacular No.9. Great at finding space, shooting from outside the box. Good in the air. He was always a reference for me and I used to watch the way he played.”
Next: 5 Reasons Germany are always favourites
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