GIUSEPPE BERGOMI RATING

Bergomi was the heir to a long line of diligent man-marking Italian full-backs who were in truth arguably centre backs but were utilised out wide and sometimes even as free-roaming defensive midfielders - designed to target the biggest threat posed by the opposition. Bergomi was more similar to Burgnich than Gentile in that he was technically proficient, didn’t need to resort to dirty tactics and athletically complete (nimble, fair bit of pace and strong in the tackle) but he did not share the formers weakness in the air.

In terms of the middle third of the pitch, in terms of contribution towards the build up Bergomi was pretty much non existent but he was a effective player in the final third, possessing a strong shot from distance and a goal-getter in the box, as well as being dangerous in the air. He was also adept at making overlapping runs (sometimes as a decoy) and had the stamina to get back and prioritise his defensive duties.

In conclusion, Bergomi was a defensively robust full back who was also at ease playing as a centre back. He was capable of contributing in the final third but was not a influence in the build up play and was technically efficient but not spectacular. A class below Djalma and Vogts, but arguably the equal of Burgnich and Gentile.