Fiorentina midfielder Edoardo Bove has thanked the football community for their show of love and good wishes during his recent admission to the hospital, Afrosport reports.
Bove spoke for the first time since he collapsed on the pitch and was rushed to the hospital on Sunday, 2 December 2024, after a medical emergency during a Serie A fixture between Fiorentina and Inter Milan.
The 22-year-old midfielder was in the intensive care unit upon arrival at the hospital before regaining consciousness the next morning.
The Roma loanee was discharged last Friday and an internal defibrillator device was fitted into his body on Wednesday to aid his breathing.
Bove joined the rest of his teammates at the Viola Park training ground on Monday morning, where he was given a warm welcome.
He then took to social media to pen a heartfelt message the football world for their support.
He wrote: “Hi everyone, I’ve had a chance to do a lot of thinking over these difficult days. While sharing on social media is not in my nature, I wanted to share my thoughts after something that struck me deeply. The unpleasant event that occurred during Fiorentina-Inter has shown me, more than ever, that football is much more than a game, championship or career.
“Football is a community, linked by people with the same passion who come together in moments of joy, anger, disappointment and suffering. It’s in these moments that I realise how genuine the sport is, beyond results, competition or rivalry. We are all united.
“The affection and warmth from the fans, support from my teammates and opponents and the closeness from the WHOLE football world has given me incredible strength and courage. I’ve been surrounded by a positive energy that has allowed me to stay calm and not feel the loneliness that can come about in this type of situation.
“For this reason, I would like us all to commit to remembering the true essence of our sport, to not let ourselves be overshadowed by its commercial side and to not let its authentic spirit be taken for granted. Because despite everything, what happened on Sunday is testimony to the genuine part of football: The one that feeds on genuine emotions, personal stories and a strong bond between those who play and those who support.
“Having said that, I’m truly grateful to belong in this world and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for the affection you’ve shown me.
“I am fine and that’s the most important thing. See you soon, on the pitch!”
View this post on Instagram
It is yet to be known when the midfielder will return to action for Fiorentina, who are fourth in the Serie A with 31 points after 15 matches following a 1-0 defeat to Bologna on Sunday.
