The player who attracted attention in Italian football unexpectedly retired at the age of 19.

(NLĐO) - Cristian Totti, son of former Italian star Francesco Totti, has decided to give up football due to the immense pressure of living in his father's shadow.

Cristian Totti, the eldest son of Italian football and AS Roma legend Francesco Totti, has decided to retire at the age of 19.

This decision reflects the harsh realities of top-level football, where fame alone is not enough without the resilience to live in the shadow of a legend. "Enough is enough, I'm giving up football," Cristian briefly told La Nuova.

From the moment he was born, Cristian faced immense pressure as the son of Francesco Totti – who scored 307 goals in 786 matches and captained AS Roma for 25 years. Cristian grew up in the spotlight and under constant comparisons. Every step he took was scrutinized by the media and social networks, from his appearance to his performance.

Cristian grew up surrounded by football, living in the shadow of his father.

Cristian trained in Roma's U18 youth academy but only played a mere 15 minutes. He then played for the youth teams of Frosinone and Rayo Vallecano (Spain) and later in Serie D for Avezzano and Olbia. However, the pressure of expectations and the derogatory remarks became an insurmountable burden.

The label "Totti's son" made it impossible for Cristian to overcome the pressure.

Under the guidance of coach Marco Amelia, the former AC Milan and Italy national team goalkeeper Cristian only played a mere 156 minutes in 6 matches for Olbia before his contract was terminated in December 2024.

Coach Amelia expressed his regret: "I chose Cristian because he is a creative midfielder, reads the game well, and is willing to compete. He could absolutely develop in Serie C or Serie B. But the label 'Totti's son' has made people see him differently."

Despite deciding to retire early, Cristian hasn't completely distanced himself from football.

He is currently involved in scouting at Totti Soccer School, the football academy founded by his father, to continue contributing to the discovery and training of young talents, keeping his passion for football alive in a different way.

Source: https://nld.com.vn/cau-thu-duoc-bong-da-y-chu-y-bat-ngo-giai-nghe-o-tuoi-19-196250729181403597.htm