Armando Picchi, 90 years of a legend. The Captain that embodied style and bravery | OneFootball

Armando Picchi was born 90 years ago, right by the sea of the place he loved so much, Livorno. With the number 6 on his back, the armband on, and his fierce gaze. He didn't shout, he didn't overperform. But those who looked at him knew. And those close to him instantly felt more at ease. Picchi was calm in the storm, the order during chaos. And as the oldest and most wise fans in the San Siro used to say, as if to prevent any danger, "Give it back, as Armando is free". Just his presence made everyone believe and rediscover life that seemed lost. He was a figure that kept the whole team together just as naturally as he led the defensive line. He was a good, strong and deeply spiritual man. Respectful and respected. Intuitive, ironic, charismatic. Every adjective, every memory, every story of him takes you to one thing: his extraordinary personality, a rare goodness of spirit that enchanted everyone that he knew.

He led on the pitch, not with strength, but intelligence. He knew where to be, when to intervene, how to cancel out even the very best without being over-physical. A leader rather than a captain, capable of making things that are impossible for others look simple. In Helenio Herrera's great Inter side, he was the silent and authoritative centrepiece. When others raised their voice, he lowered his tone. While others ran, he anticipated. He seemed to know the game in advance, before it developed. And in doing so, he gave off this calmness, certainty and undeniable determination.

Picchi is a footballing idol. It wasn't all about his performances, but also his behaviour. His leadership was exemplary, not necessarily about making statements.

He played for the Nerazzurri for seven seasons winning 3 Scudettos, 2 European Cups and 2 Intercontinental cups, scoring just one goal in the league, in his first derby on 20 November 1960, AC Milan 0-1 Inter, when he was still playing as a right full-back.

Armando Picchi was (and remains) Inter's strongest and most sombre spirit who taught the world how to win. With style, mentality and heart. But also when he lost, he had the courtesy and awareness to recognise when fairly beaten and to give credit to the opponent.