Gianluca Vialli picks up Italy’s team of year gong at Globe Awards in Dubai days after revealing cancer has returned
CHELSEA legend Gianluca Vialli picked up Italy's Team of Year award at the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai.
Roberto Mancini's European Championship winning side were victorious in the best national team of the year category.
They pipped Copa America champions Argentina, Brazil, World Cup holders France and Morocco.
Italy beat England in the final of the Euros following a dramatic penalty shootout at Wembley.
And Chelsea and Juventus legend Vialli - who made 59 appearances for Italy - picked up the award in their honour as a current member of their backroom staff.
It comes just days after the ex-striker revealed he is suffering from cancer for a second time.
Vialli, 57, was first diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2017 but then given the all-clear in April 2020.
But he has heartbreakingly admitted his health problems have returned to haunt him.
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Speaking at a London book launch, he said: "I feel good, but my journey is not yet complete.
"The unwanted guest, as I call it, is still here with me. At this moment I am in maintenance mode.
"The tumour is still there. At times it is more noticeable, at others less so. I will keep fighting because I want to be here for many more years.
"I want you to have to put up with me for a long time to come.
"I take that strength from my family, friends, and all those who give me such courage. I can't thank them enough."
