The football world is mourning the loss of a true legend. Evaristo Beccalossi, the iconic Inter Milan midfielder, passed away on Tuesday night at the age of 69. His passing has prompted an emotional tribute from none other than FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who described the former star as a personal hero and dear friend.

"If I love football, it's mostly because of you," Infantino wrote in a heartfelt Instagram story. "You made my heart beat, you showed me the way, and you were a friend of mine. Today I lose a part of myself. Rest in peace, my dear Evaristo."

Beccalossi's journey was one of resilience. In January 2025, he suffered a cerebral haemorrhage that left him in a coma for 47 days. After a long and grueling rehabilitation, he was on the road to recovery, making his sudden loss all the more heartbreaking for fans and friends alike.

On the pitch, Beccalossi was a true artist of the game. A classic No. 10, he scored 30 goals in 249 Serie A appearances, wearing the shirts of Inter, Brescia, and Sampdoria. His finest moments came in the Nerazzurri jersey, where he helped Inter secure the 1979-80 Serie A title and the 1981-82 Coppa Italia. He later added another Coppa Italia to his collection with Sampdoria in 1984-85.

For Infantino, Beccalossi was more than just a player—he was an idol. In a recent interview, the FIFA President reflected on the impact Beccalossi had on his life: "One of my first idols was Evaristo Beccalossi, a No. 10 who didn't play in that World Cup or with the national team because the coach had other plans. Inter's No. 10 made us dream."

Infantino, a lifelong Inter fan, had been celebrating the club's latest Serie A title just days ago. Now, his joy is overshadowed by the loss of a man who helped define his love for the beautiful game. As the football community says goodbye to Beccalossi, his legacy as a player, a fighter, and a friend will never be forgotten.