Manuel Rui Costa Returns to Florence for Fiorentina's 100th Anniversary Legends Match
Manuel Rui Costa made a heartfelt return to Florence after a quarter of a century to take part in Fiorentina's centenary legends match. The event marked 100 years of the club, with Rui Costa expressing his hope that the team will soon win trophies again.
Celebrating Fiorentina’s Century
The Portuguese icon, now president of Benfica, stepped onto the pitch at Stadio Artemio Franchi on 2 September 2026, joining a team of Fiorentina All-Stars. Their side triumphed 7-3 against Operazione Nostalgia in an entertaining exhibition match. Alongside him were other club legends such as Gabriel Batistuta, Roberto Baggio, and Franck Ribery.
For the 20,000 fans gathered, Rui Costa’s return was one of the most anticipated moments of the centenary week.
A Personal Return Filled With Emotion
"I didn’t come here just to please people, but for myself," Rui Costa said. "I spent the seven most beautiful years of my life in Florence, and I really wanted to relive those emotions tonight."
He reminisced about lifting the Coppa Italia in 2001 as captain, describing it as the proudest moment of his career. Rui Costa also voiced his wish for Fiorentina’s future success, noting, "Honestly, I don’t like the fact that I am the last captain to deliver a trophy to this club. Florence and Fiorentina deserve to taste victory again."
Franck Ribery Rekindles His Passion
Franck Ribery, who played alongside former teammate Luca Toni during the match, shared his excitement about wearing the purple jersey once more.
"Look at all these fans! This is truly incredible! When we get back on the pitch and touch the ball again like in the past, my great passion for football immediately ignites," Ribery said. He added thanks to the fans and everyone involved in the centenary celebrations.
Honoring the Past, Looking Ahead
The legends match was the highlight of a week packed with festivities, including a torchlight procession by Curva Fiesole supporters and purple illuminations on historic landmarks across Florence. Meanwhile, Fiorentina’s current squad faces early-season Serie A challenges.
As the returning stars left Florence, their hope was clear: that the next generation will bring new silverware and pride to this storied club.
- Event: Fiorentina 100th anniversary legends match
- Date: 2 September 2026
- Venue: Stadio Artemio Franchi, Florence
- Match result: Fiorentina All-Stars 7 - 3 Operazione Nostalgia
- Notable players: Manuel Rui Costa, Gabriel Batistuta, Roberto Baggio, Franck Ribery, Luca Toni
- Attendance: Approximately 20,000
