Gabriele Andena, the former Varese and Atalanta player who had never received a card in Serie A, has died suddenly

An entire career in Serie A without ever receiving a card. A record of sportsmanship that speaks volumes about Gabriele Andena, a former player for Varese and Atalanta, who passed away suddenly at the age of 79 following a sudden illness. Soccer has lost a star from a bygone era, a player who commanded respect from his opponents without ever compromising his determination and tenacity.

The news of his death has particularly affected the Varese community, to which Andena remained deeply attached. Just a few days earlier, he had attended a ceremony in Varese to name the small square in front of the stadium after Pietro Anastasi, his former teammate in the red-and-white jersey. It was an opportunity to reconnect with friends and commemorate an important chapter in the city’s soccer history.

Born in Milan, he began his career with Gallaratese, where he played from 1966 to 1968, before moving to Varese. With the “Città Giardino” team, he spent six seasons, from 1968 to 1974, helping the team secure two promotions to Serie A and becoming one of the players most beloved by fans for his generosity, reliability, and dedication to the team.

In 1974, he transferred to Atalanta, where he continued his career until 1979, making 167 appearances and scoring one goal. A career path that had also brought him into Inter’s orbit and during which he distinguished himself through consistently exemplary conduct. The fact that he never received a single card in the top flight remains one of the most significant testaments to his approach to the game.

Even after hanging up his cleats, Andena did not abandon the world of soccer. In fact, he continued to work in the sports industry, collaborating with a company specializing in the design and construction of synthetic turf fields, helping to create facilities intended for young soccer players as well.