Gigi Riva dies aged 79 as tributes pour in for Italy legend and Euros winner
One of the great names of Italian football has passed away at just shy of 80 years old in Scudetto winner and ex-Azzurri international Luigi Riva after a brief spell in hospital
Italian football icon Luigi 'Gigi' Riva has died aged 79 following a short spell in hospital after falling ill at his home in Sardinia.
La Gazzetta dello Sport claimed earlier on Monday afternoon that Riva had undergone a series of medical tests after being taken to hospital and was closely monitored by doctors. Unfortunately, his condition deteriorated and Italy bids farewell to one of their biggest legends.
Riva spent the last 15 years of his playing career representing Cagliari, during which time he netted 205 goals for the club across 374 games. He was vital to the historic Scudetto triumph of the 1969-70 campaign.
Not only was he a hero for his club, but Riva also sealed his place as an Italy legend courtesy of his efforts for the national team. He represented the Azzurri at two World Cups and one European Championship, notching 35 goals in the process, sealing his status as his country's record-goalscorer.
There will be more to follow on this breaking news story.