Francesco Flachi scored 110 goals for Sampdoria in 280 games
Francesco Flachi, Serie A side Sampdoria's captain, was on his way towards becoming a legend in club football. Captain, more than 100 goals scored and was called up by Italy.
His life was forever changed when, just hours after playing against Inter Milan on January 28, 2007, he was tested positive for cocaine.
He was immediately banned from all football activities and then for two years.
Flachi told BBC Sport that "I lost everything in that exact moment." "I was an idol for Genoa. I started the year with two goals, and I was recently called up to the national team.
In some ways, that was only the beginning. His entire career was over two years later. Or so it seemed.
Stain on his name
Flachi is no stranger to controversy.
Flachi was suspended for two months in 2006 after he was accused of trying to fix matches. He claims that he had nothing to do. "I never accepted that ban."
He had overcame that stigma and was now working hard to cement his position as one of the most talented number 10s in Italy. Flachi's 110 goals in Sampdoria ranked him third among club's all time scorers, after Roberto Mancini (and Gianluca Vialli).
He would have had an almost certain higher score if he hadn't failed the 2007 drugs test.
Flachi received a chance to redeem himself with Serie B sides Empoli and Brescia after he was forced to be absent for two years. However, the previous year's events had taken their toll. He reflects on how he felt mentally.
Flachi was again tested positive for cocaine in December 2009. Flachi was a repeat offenders and was given a 12-year ban that ended his high-ranking career.
He seemed to be certain that he wouldn't play again. Flachi, twelve years later, is now preparing for an unlikely return.
"I want to pass on the things I have thrown away"
Flachi was unable to play but he unofficially coached the local team Bagno a Ripoli and won league and cup championships. Flachi has also coached Signa 1914 youth teams and, following the pandemic, he gives individual lessons to 50 children on football technique.
After being teased by Andrea Ballerini, his friend and president of the club, he will be playing at Signa 1914, his fifth-tier team, when his ban expires in January.
Flachi states, "I'm very excited about the date," It all began as a joke but we became more serious. Signa 1914 was my first job, and I was already helping with the youth sector.
"Andrea began to prod me: "You can't go any further, you're too old." Although I hadn't played on a real 11-a-side football field for 12 years, I was a football fan and enjoy the emotions.
"The sensations I feel now as a player are very similar to what I experienced while training. Although pressure and exposure are different, some football dynamics, such as life in the dressing-room, are similar at all levels.
"I am aware that I made a mistake, and I was punished for it. Although I know that I'm not as fast as I used be, I can still do my part to help these boys believe in themselves. They should also see how beautiful football can be. They cannot afford to lose the things I gave away."
"At first, watching soccer would make me sick."
Flachi is most associated with Sampdoria but won Serie B with Fiorentina and the Coppa Italyalia with Fiorentina before moving on to Genoa
Flachi has had the opportunity to reflect on his choices and to play again after returning to training.
He adds, "After such disgrace you think about everything." "Of a career that was thrown in to the trash, your public image and the pain you caused your loved ones. Although people didn't like me at first, I soon learned to accept my mistakes and was able to rebuild most relationships.
"It was initially difficult to watch football, but I soon got over it and started moving on. I opened two restaurants in Florence, and spent most of my time cooking. Many people have called and sent me messages since I've been letting them know that I will be playing. This is a sign that a lot people still love me.
"I am not a victim. I made a mistake. I don't want other people to make the same mistakes. My coaching has given me a lot positive feedback. This is a good sign that my commitment is appreciated and my parents trust me.
It's easy to judge the outside from the inside. People who know me well know my true nature. I am the same person that I was 20 years ago. I still hold my values.
"It is possible to make mistakes and fall but you can always get back on your feet. Unexpected events are part of life. My goal is to play my part in football and prove that I can.
