Veron: trip down memory lane on Instagram Live

Juan Sebastian Veron was the star last night in a special live video on the @Sampdoria Instagram channel. The Argentine, now president of Estudiantes, spent half an hour chatting to DAZN broadcaster Tommaso Turci and the Blucerchiati fans. He shared memories of his time at Sampdoria, which marked the start of his illustrious journey through European football some 24 years ago.

“To start with I knew almost nothing about the club,” the Argentine legend said.

“The internet and social media weren’t around, so it was difficult to be properly informed. I just knew that Samp had played in the European Cup final a few years previously.
“I was playing at a tournament in China with Boca and Maradona was there – I asked him what to do. Then I embarked on my adventure.”

“I have wonderful memories,” Veron continued. “It was like a family there, from the store room staff to the president, there was a strong connection. I stayed in Genoa for two years and I still treasure my time there. I can’t not mention Sampdoria when I get asked about my football career.

“At Doria I scored perhaps the most beautiful goal of my career, against Perugia – a right-foot volley from a corner that arrowed into the top corner. If I tried it another ten times it would have kept ending up in the Gradinata. It wasn’t something we’d planned, but it worked out well and was a real golazo.

“The Blucerchiati jersey is wonderful – I see lots of people wearing it here in Argentina. It’s beautiful and there are lots of Samp supporters. Now my club is Estudiantes – I inaugurated the stadium, which I think is similar to the Ferraris and brings back great memories.

“I hope the Samp fans remember me with the same affection with which I remember them.”