Nicola Berti was born in Salsomaggiore Terme on 14 April 1967. A versatile midfielder gifted with a remarkable eye for goal, he rose up through the ranks of Parma’s youth sides, soon making his name well known among the elite of Italian football. After three seasons with Fiorentina, he moved to Inter in the summer of ’88, going on to make his mark on the club’s history with a famous Scudetto, two UEFA Cups and an Italian Super Cup. After his time with the Nerazzurri, he played out the end of his career in England, Spain and finally Australia at the age of 33.

Berti slotted straight into the Under-21 National Team, receiving his first senior call-up for a friendly against Norway in Pescara on 10 October 1988. From that day onwards he became a cornerstone of Azeglio Vicini’s tactical set-up, earning a place in the squad for the 1990 World Cup as Italy finished third. He was also a part of the side to reach the final of the USA World Cup, as Arrigo Sacchi’s Azzurri returned heartbroken after losing to Brazil on penalties. His final appearance for the National Team came on 21 June 1995, hanging up his international boots with a career total of 39 appearances and three goals.