Roberto Papa, former US Catanzaro midfielder, dies at 72

Roberto Papa, a former midfielder of US Catanzaro, died at the age of 72. He was a key figure in the club’s historic promotion to Serie A during the 1975‑76 season, making 18 appearances and scoring once before moving to Cavese. After retiring as a player, Papa remained involved in football as a respected amateur coach, leading teams such as US G. Carotenuto and the Falchi Rossi, and was praised for his preparation and humanity.

The club and its president, Floriano Noto, expressed deep condolences, recalling Papa’s contribution to a celebrated era of Catanzaro football. His funeral was held on 1 August at the Church of the Transfiguration in Succivo, his hometown.