Gabriele Sabatini, former footballer and coach, dies at 50

Gabriele Sabatini, a former midfielder and football coach, has died at the age of 50. He passed away in a hospital in Pisa following an illness.

Sabatini’s football career began in the youth academies of Spezia and AC Milan, eventually leading to call-ups for the Italian Under-15 and Under-16 national teams. During his time in the national youth selections, he played alongside future stars such as Alessandro Nesta, Francesco Totti, Simone Inzaghi, and Domenico Morfeo. Although a serious injury interrupted his professional playing trajectory, he continued to play for various clubs, including Pisa, Alessandria, and Sarzanese.

Following his playing career, Sabatini transitioned into coaching, becoming a respected figure in regional football. He managed teams such as Ligorna, Fezzanese—whom he led to Serie D—and most recently Santerenzina. His passing has drawn condolences from several sports clubs, including Spezia Calcio and Santerenzina, who praised his lasting impact on the football community.