Today could well be the last time we saw Fabio Quagliarella in a Serie A game and after years of success, heartbreak and tragedy, it was rather fitting that this tearful farewell came in Naples against Napoli.

Quagliarella was born in Naples and always harboured dreams of playing for the Partenopei. Many years into his career that dream did come true but it ended quickly, as the presence of a disgusting stalker ended his dream from progressing. Things would turn ugly in Naples and he was criticised for his exit until he would later reveal his story.

He would recover from his heartbreak and tragedy and would go onto star for Juventus, Torino and now Sampdoria, for whom he played close to 250 times and was also the league’s highest scorer once, scoring more than the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo. His contributions at Samp also led to his recall to the Azzurri at the age of 36.

Known for his incredibly audacious and awe-inspiring goals, today was a rather fitting end to a spectacular Serie A career. And it took place where it all started for him, where he would have wanted to star and win silverware. He might not have done that but he has done something more. When the whole of the Maradona applauded the tearful 40-year-old and every Napoli player hugged the icon, it was certain that Quagliarella has achieved the admiration of everyone in his city. And perhaps, that redemption will forever matter more.

Naples is proud of Quagliarella and it forever will be. He has achieved his dream.

Kaustubh Pandey | GIFN