Three years on and his memory is very much alive. On 4 March 2018, the world of football was rocked by the tragic news of the death of Fiorentina captain Davide Astori. Florence had become a home away from home after seven years spent in Cagliari and a season with Roma in 2014/15. 

“Davide is with us,” declared FIGC president Gabriele Gravina. “His example continues to inspire us. Of his many qualities, I like to remember his extraordinary capacity to lead, to be a friend and opponent - but never an enemy - to never be perturbed.”

Astori also did well with Italy, having been called up 58 times between 2010 and 2017 and making 14 appearances. He scored one goal for his country, in 2013 in the third-place playoff in the Confederations Cup against Uruguay. He had a very strong bond with the Azzurri shirt, with many friendships cultivated within the walls of Coverciano and the heartfelt appreciation from teammates and staff. It was no coincidence that his funeral chamber was set up at the Federal Technical Centre, where thousands of fans gathered to pay their last respects. On 27 March 2018, a minute’s applause was held before the friendly between England and Italy, with Azzurri wearing a special shirt with a patch reading “Davide sempre con noi” (Davide, always with us).

Astori was also commemorated with a special Fair Play award in the “Hall of Fame of Italian football”; this is a special recognition granted by the FIGC and Fondazione Museo del Calcio in order to celebrate players, coaches, referees and directors who have left an indelible mark on the history of our game.Yesterday, on the third anniversary of his death, matches throughout Serie A were paused for a round of applause during the 13th minute - in honour of his shirt number - and a photo of Davide was displayed on the big screen at the various grounds around Italy.