Jordgio Chinaglia Football player Date of Birth: 24.01.1947 Country: Italy

1. Giorgio Chinaglia
2. Early Life and Career in Italy
3. International Debut and Lazio Success
4. Departure from Lazio and Move to the United States
5. Success with the Cosmos
6. Legacy

Giorgio Chinaglia

Giorgio Chinaglia, known as "Long John," was an Italian footballer who made history as the first player to debut for the Italy national team while playing in Serie B.

Early Life and Career in Italy

Born in Carrara, Tuscany, on January 24, 1947, Chinaglia moved to the United Kingdom at the age of eight to join his parents in Cardiff. He joined Swansea City in 1962 and turned professional in 1965. However, he found limited success in England and returned to Italy in 1966.

After playing for Massese and Internapoli in the lower divisions, Chinaglia moved to Lazio in 1969. He quickly established himself as a prolific scorer, helping the club regain promotion to Serie A in 1971.

International Debut and Lazio Success

In June 1972, Chinaglia made his international debut for Italy, scoring a goal within a minute of coming onto the field. He became a regular for the national team, playing 14 games and scoring four goals.

In 1974, Lazio won their first Serie A championship, with Chinaglia finishing as the league's top scorer. His impressive performances earned him the nickname "Big Giorgio" and made him one of Lazio's most beloved players.

Departure from Lazio and Move to the United States

In 1976, Chinaglia controversially left Lazio and joined the New York Cosmos in the United States. He cited his wife's desire to live in the US as the reason for his departure.

Success with the Cosmos

Chinaglia formed a formidable partnership with Pelé and Franz Beckenbauer at the Cosmos. He became a dominant force in the North American Soccer League (NASL), winning five consecutive Golden Boot awards from 1978 to 1982.

In 1980, Chinaglia reached the peak of his scoring prowess, netting 50 goals in 39 games. This remains a record for any season in the first division of a national championship.

Legacy

Giorgio Chinaglia retired from playing in 1983 and became the president of Lazio. He later worked as a soccer commentator and analyst.

Chinaglia is remembered as one of the most prolific strikers of his generation. He scored 319 goals in 429 matches in the first divisions of Italy and the United States, making him one of the greatest goal scorers of all time.

Chinaglia passed away in Naples, Florida, on April 1, 2019, at the age of 72. He remains an icon for Lazio and Italian football.