MILAN - There are moments that go beyond the pitch or current circumstances. Yesterday Cristian Chivu returned to the San Siro from his Romania. For a few moments he put down the crutches he had been using for his every step, raised his head and gave a warm smile toward the fans and president Thohir. It was something moving for everyone present, including Chivu and his wife Adelina. And we remembered that unlucky day in Verona, which in the end turned out to be very lucky because he was still here with us: the helmet, the victories and the courage a man takes when facing life’s obstacles. The loyalty that a true champion feels when putting on his shirt.
A few days ago he wrote about how he dedicated it all to his father – a mentor who wasn’t able to witness his success. This is how he described his path:
"I’m happy and sad at the same time, laughing and crying, and I have an incredible sense of satisfaction that words simply cannot describe. Football offered me something that will always be with me. It taught me what passion, courage and sacrifice mean. These things built a bridge between dreams and reality for me. I know who and what I am. I know what I’ve achieved and how I’ve achieved it, and I know it was a journey that put me to the test. But during this journey I never gave up on my dreams. I never walked away from the battles and challenges that meant my destiny. I faced these tests with the strong conviction that I would overcome them, move forward, and that I would one day look at my children and they would thank me with their embraces. Nothing more.
"I thank my parents for the strong upbringing they gave me. Twenty-four years ago I set out on this fantastic journey, encouraged by the man who was my example and the source of my inspiration. He left us eight years later and I thought everything was over for me. I was 17 years old. That man was my father, my coach and my friend, but also my greatest critic.
"He’s the first person I’d like to thank, because I’ve always felt his presence throughout my career. I’ve always tried to be like him: dignified, courageous, ambitious and fair, just as he tried to teach me to be. I’ve always tried most of all to be a man before being anything else. I needed my father more than anyone could possibly imagine and, over this voyage, perhaps even more than I had imagined myself.
"A big thanks also goes out to my coaches. Those who saw my debut in the sport, as well as those who I worked with throughout my career and have been a constant source of inspiration for me.
"I’d like to thank all the clubs that I played for, first for the faith they showed in me, and then for of the possibilities they offered me in different cities and countries. These things helped me to become a better person. I thank all the fans of the teams I played for. Without their passion and support we never would have been able to win the games we won. I always honoured and respected the history and tradition of the clubs I played for.
"Thanks to the medical staff, doctors and physiotherapists for the understanding and moral support they gave me, and for never having given up on me, despite the fact that I could very well hold the record for the highest number of injures suffered. I’d also like to take this moment to send a special thanks to my doctor and friend, Franco Combi. If it hadn’t been for him I wouldn’t be here writing this.
"Thanks to all those who worked behind the scenes and carried out important roles in every football team; these are the people who look after us, interact with us and try to satisfy our every whim: cooks, storekeepers and all the personnel. I send you my respectful thanks and admiration. And so long after so many ‘good mornings’.
"I met many players over my career. I’d like to thank them for their respect and tell them what a privilege it was to be their team-mate and partner in so many battles, whether they ended in victory or defeat. You will always remain in my heart. And most of all, I’ll miss the dressing room.
"And last but certainly not least, I have to thank my wife Adelina. She gave up her dreams to be with me. We grew up together, far from home, and together we overcame adversity. She understood me and supported me in my most difficult moments. She offered me love, peace and a family; things I had always dreamed of. Thanks to my two daughters, Anastasia and Natalia, who ensured I was never sad, and helped me to instantly forget any bad moment. They, along with my wife, are worth more than any professional success I ever achieved.
"I entered the world of football as a boy and a dreamer full of ambition. Now I leave the sport with grey hair, a few scars and the conviction that my heart is where it should be, although I always gave my all for the teams I played for. Dad, I hope you’re proud of the man that I’ve become. This is the end of a journey and the beginning of the rest of my life."
