Athletic absorbs the humility of a historic 10

“There isn’t enough money to pay for the pride I have of being at Independiente for 20 years, of having so many championships and of having the love of so many people.” Ricardo Bochini received the 2022 ‘One Club Man’ award from Athletic Beyond the football heritage he left a few years ago in Argentina, Botxa traced his humble sporting and human greatness to various corners of the rojiblanco mark and character.

Someone stated that this annual award given by the Bilbao club represents loyalty, love of colors and, above all, love of values. When the Ibaigane entity came up with the idea to establish this award, in fact, honesty, commitment, responsibility, sportsmanship and respect were taught as elements to be appreciated in the few footballers who have thrived throughout their careers at the same club.

Le Tissier, Maldini, Maier, Puyol, Billy McNeill and Giggs topped Bochini on Athletic’s list of winners. El Bocha, however, was just one of them all to go public in Botxo. A whole lesson of life and appreciation.

Bochini, his relatives said, was applauded even on rival courts. When asked by Independiente’s endless 10 about what he gave people to be treated like this, he replied that “the respect you should have for all opponents. I wanted to win all the championships, but I always celebrated with my teammates and with my fans and I didn’t burden my rivals ”.

Not only is the human profile of stars like Bochini going through a better life in this modern football. His way of understanding and practicing this sport, a combination of art, class and creativity, will be difficult to maintain in these times when control and tactical discipline dominate the imagination. Big bowl!