Club mourns Giorgio Rossi: Roma servant for 55 years

A massage therapist in name only, Rossi established himself as an invaluable confidante, sounding board and friend to players and staff throughout his long spell at the Giallorossi.

Joining the club’s youth sector in 1957, Rossi began working with the Roma first team in 1965 – graduating to a full-time role with the first-team following the arrival of Nils Liedholm as coach in 1979.

Rossi – who was born just yards from the Colosseum, as Roman as Roman can be - was a key member of Roma’s backroom staff for the club’s Scudetto victories in 1983 and 2001, working under presidents Dino Viola and Franco Sensi.

It was Sensi, indeed, who famously grabbed centre-back Aldair by the shoulder one year and, pointing at Rossi, said, “You know, of course, this is the real owner of AS Roma.”

It was an example of the affection and respect Rossi earned within the club. Luciano Spalletti would later name him ‘President of the Dressing Room’.

Rossi’s work relationship with the Giallorossi ended in May 2012. At his final game, at home to Catania, he received a deafening ovation from the Stadio Olimpico – along with a tribute from the Curva Sud.

He was presented with a 'Rossi 55' shirt, signed by the team, in recognition of his long service.

He remained always welcome at Trigoria, a living example of the history of the club.

“Giorgio is just how you have heard,” Francesco Totti once said.

“Everyone has respect for him, because he treats everyone with the same care and attention: from the president to the last boy in the youth sector.”

He will be sorely missed.