Assistant referee Alessandro Giallatini had an emotional moment last Tuesday night, when he was seen in tears after the end of the game between Leipzig and Aston Villa. The Italian, who was ending his career as a professional referee, was consoled by Leipzig coach Marco Rose, who initially did not understand the reason for the emotion.
Giallatini, 49, said goodbye to a remarkable career in football, which included 31 matches in the Champions League, 11 in the Europa League, as well as performances in the 2022 World Cup and the 2024 Euro Cup.
Marco Rose, realizing the reason for the emotion, shared his reaction: “I asked what was happening. He explained that it was the last game of his career. I told him that now he will have more time for himself and that he should take advantage of it to take care of his family.”
Images of the moment spread quickly, highlighting Giallatini’s farewell and Marco Rose’s gesture of support.
Assistant referee Alessandro Giallatini was visibly moved after officiating in his final match.
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport)
