A gentleman coach, passionate about football with a deep connection to Italy, Sven-Goran Eriksson passed away this morning at the age of 76, after suffering from an incurable illness. Born in Sunne, a small Swedish town with 5,000 inhabitants, Eriksson was the first foreign manager to manage England. His globetrotting career took him to the benches of national teams such as Mexico, Côte d'Ivoire, and the Philippines. He won numerous trophies, earning the respect and affection of his players and millions of fans.

Throughout his extensive career, which spanned over forty years, Eriksson managed four Italian clubs (Lazio, Roma, Sampdoria, and Fiorentina). With Lazio, he won one Serie A title, one Cup Winners' Cup, one UEFA Super Cup, two Italian Super Cups, and two Coppe Italia. He also secured two Coppe Italia titles with Roma and Sampdoria.

"The news of his passing," said FIGC President Gabriele Gravina, "brings great sorrow to Italian football. Valued and respected for his technical and human qualities, Sven-Goran was a great coach whose memory will forever be tied to Italy. His testament of love for football and life has moved everyone and unites fans, without distinction, in a long and heartfelt applause".

In his memory, a minute of silence will be observed at all Serie A (men's and women's) and Serie B matches scheduled for today and the next round of games.