Emiliano Viviano’s career was a study in contrasts – a long-time understudy to a legend, a brief and unexpected stint at Arsenal, and a night out that nearly derailed everything. His story, now fully revealed after his retirement in 2024, is a candid look behind the polished facade of professional football.
Viviano reflected on his time backing up Gianluigi Buffon for the Italian national team, a position that came with a unique frustration. He believed Buffon deserved universal acclaim, yet often felt overlooked by fans. More personally, Viviano felt he deserved more opportunities, lamenting that his chance to truly prove himself never fully materialized.
The sting of exclusion resonated deeply when Cesare Prandelli left him off the Euro 2012 squad. Viviano described it as a “stab,” pointing out his significant playing time compared to those who ultimately made the team. He believed the decision wasn’t based on merit, but on internal politics, a conversation he didn’t hesitate to have with the coach himself.
His time at Arsenal, though short, offered a surprising revelation about Arsène Wenger. Viviano anticipated a revolutionary figure, but found a manager who was, simply, “normal.” He didn’t see much playing time, with Wojciech Szczesny enjoying a stellar season and Łukasz Fabiański also in the mix.
But it was a disastrous trip to Everton that remains etched in Viviano’s memory. A late-night outing, a sudden illness to Fabiański, and a frantic text message at 2 AM thrust him into an impossible situation. He’d been enjoying the night, unaware that his evening was about to take a dramatic turn.
The details are startlingly honest: half a bottle of vodka consumed, a desperate plea for more while confirming the emergency call-up, and a bleary-eyed arrival at Goodison Park. There, Santi Cazorla delivered a brutal assessment – “You smell of alcohol, you’re disgusting.” The words triggered a near-panic attack, a terrifying realization that his career could be over before it truly began.
Now, contemplating a future in coaching, Viviano approaches the possibility with cautious realism. He’s drawn to the communication aspect, believing his experience in multiple countries offers a valuable perspective. Yet, he’s also witnessed the toll it takes on those closest to him.
He observes the rapid aging of Cristian Chivu and the relentless dedication of his brother, Roberto De Zerbi, and recognizes the all-consuming nature of the job. He questions whether he’s willing to commit fully, remembering his own growing impatience at the end of his playing days. Despite these reservations, at 40, he remains open to the possibilities that lie ahead.
