Former Italian football star Salvatore “Totò” Schillaci is making progress in his recovery after being hospitalized for cardiac irregularities. The family of the 1990 World Cup hero has provided an update on his condition, expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support they have received.
Schillaci, who had previously battled colon cancer, was admitted to a hospital in Palermo on Saturday evening. Doctors were able to stabilize his condition, and recent reports indicate that he is steadily improving.
In a statement shared via social media, Schillac’s family said: “Totò, Barbara and the family thank all the people who at this moment are close to us with a call, a message or a prayer. His condition continues to improve. Totò is fighting with all his strength to recover as soon as possible.”
This update aligns with the most recent official statement from the hospital, which noted that Schillaci’s condition has “clearly improved compared to when he first arrived.”
Now 59 years old, Schillaci rose to international fame during the 1990 World Cup hosted by Italy. He emerged as the tournament’s top scorer with six goals, helping lead the Azzurri to a third-place finish. His performances during that summer captured the hearts of football fans worldwide and cemented his place in Italian football history.
Throughout his professional career, Schillaci played for several clubs including Messina, Juventus, Inter Milan, and Japanese side Jubilo Iwata before retiring in 1996. He amassed an impressive tally of 37 goals and 12 assists in 120 Serie A appearances.
