One of the most iconic Italian referees, Daniele Orsato, officiated his 289th and final Serie A game on Sunday evening. Fiorentina squeaked past Atalanta 3-2 in Bergamo on the final day of the 2023/24 season in the 48-year-old’s last appearance in Italy’s top flight.
Widely considered one of the best referees of his generation, Orsato has dedicated the past three decades of his life to improving Italian football and Serie A. He’s probably the only worthy successor of the legendary Pierluigi Collina.
After blowing the final whistle one last time in Serie A, Orsato received a standing ovation. Joining a round of applause from the stands were Fiorentina director Daniele Prade and Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini.
They approached Orsato to congratulate him personally, expressing their gratitude and respect for his contributions to Serie A. Gasperini spoke of the famous referee with chosen words.
“One of the best referees in history quits football today,” he said. “I hope he remains inside the system. He was not a friendly referee, but he was authoritative and authoritarian. Most importantly, when we knew he had been appointed, we were sure we had the best on the pitch.“
Orsato has called time on his Serie A career, but it’s not over yet. He will be among the most highly respected referees at the 2024 European Championship in Germany. But after that, he will enjoy a well-deserved retirement.
Grazie Daniele! Serie A lovers will never forget you!
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