Franco Scoglio: Remembering the legendary football manager

The football community marks the 21st anniversary of the passing of Franco Scoglio, the legendary football manager known as ‘the Professor’. Scoglio died on October 3, 2005, during a live television broadcast on Primocanale. His death occurred following a heated telephone conversation with Genoa president Enrico Preziosi, fulfilling his own prophecy that he would ‘die talking about Genoa’.

Born in Lipari and a trained pedagogue, Scoglio had a diverse career spanning teaching and football. He began coaching in 1971 and managed numerous Italian clubs, including Reggina, Messina, Crotone, and Spezia. He is most fondly remembered for his deep connection to Genoa CFC, where he achieved significant milestones, including securing the club's survival in Serie C and a notable run in 1992.

Scoglio was known for his intense personality, his refusal to compromise with management over the will of the fans, and his strong emotional reaction to defeat. His legacy remains tied to his passionate advocacy for the Genoa supporters and his unique, often colorful, approach to the game.