Giovanni Lodetti Morte: Giovanni Lodetti was an Italian soccer player, a midfielder, European champion with the Italian national team in 1968. He died in Milan after a long illness on 22 September 2023 at 81.
At the age of fifteen, he began his journey in the oratory team of his hometown.
His talent didn’t go unnoticed, and he soon entered the youth sector of Milan after successfully passing a trial overseen by coach Mario Malatesta.
In a remarkable debut in 1961, he joined the first team.
Despite primarily playing a supporting role, he played a crucial part in Milan’s championship victory in his very first season, marking the eighth title for the Rossoneri club.
His first Serie A goal came on February 17, 1963, in a match against LR Vicenza.
Giovanni Lodetti Morte (Death & Obituary)
Giovanni Lodetti, born on August 10, 1942, sadly passed away on September 22, 2023, at 81.
He succumbed to a prolonged illness that he had been battling.
Following a long and successful playing career at the top of the game, Lodetti enjoyed many years of television work after his retirement, featuring as a co-commentator and pundit on Serie A matches for many years.
Milan has since posted the following message in tribute: “He had infinite love for Milan, for all his Rossoneri teammates and friends. He ran, fought, won, and lived with his shirt, the Lodetti.
“Our most heartfelt and sincere condolences go out to Mrs. Rita and her son Massimo for the loss of the inimitable Giovanni, our unforgettable Basletta.”
Giovanni Lodetti was a dedicated and industrious player known for his vital role on the field.
He often provided strong defensive support to his more creative teammates, thriving in the position of a defensive midfielder.
His remarkable stamina and astute reading of the game made him excel in this role.
Despite his primary focus on defensive duties, Lodetti showcased impressive technical skills, creativity, and a knack for scoring goals.
These qualities allowed him to contribute effectively to his team’s offensive plays as well.
Club & International Soccer Career
Giovanni Lodetti is primarily celebrated for his exceptional tenure as a defensive midfielder at the Italian club Milan during the 1960s.
Alongside the influential playmaker Gianni Rivera, Lodetti achieved significant domestic and international success.
During his time with Milan, he secured two Serie A titles, including one in his debut season, a Coppa Italia, two European Cups, a Cup Winners’ Cup, and an Intercontinental Cup.
Subsequently, he continued his football career with clubs such as Sampdoria, Foggia, and Novara, ultimately retiring in 1978.
Lodetti’s international contributions are also noteworthy.
He represented the Italian national team at the 1966 World Cup in England, although they were eliminated in the initial round. He played a crucial role in Italy’s triumphant UEFA Euro 1968 campaign, which took place on home soil.
While he was slated to participate in the 1970 World Cup, during which Italy reached the final, he was unfortunately sidelined at the last minute due to an injury to Pietro Anastasi.
As a result, manager Ferruccio Valcareggi called up Roberto Boninsegna and Pierino Prati in his place.
In total, Lodetti earned 17 caps for the national team between 1964 and 1968, contributing two goals. Additionally, he represented the under-21 side during their victorious campaign at the 1963 Mediterranean Games.
