Piermario Morosini’s Sister Will Be Looked After, Vows Antonio Di Natale and Teammates

by

Apr 16, 2012

Piermario Morosini's Sister Will Be Looked After, Vows Antonio Di Natale and TeammatesThose wondering if soccer is a family affair in Italy only need to look at the case of Piermario Morosini.

Morosini collapsed and died on the field during a game on Saturday, and his teammates from parent club Udinese Calcio have vowed to look after his sister for the rest of her life, according to FIFA.com.

"We know the situation of his sister and we as a team, the club, and Udinese for Life have decided to help her because she is in real need," Udinese star Antonio Di Natale reportedly told Udinese Channel. "It is essential to stay by the side of Piermario's sister for her entire life. She needs us and we want to help, both for her and for Mario."

Morosini's death shook Italian soccer and sent the world soccer community into mourning. All weekend games in Italy's top three divisions were postponed, as players and fans come to grips with the 25-year-old's tragic death.

Tributes have been pouring in for the Livorno midfielder, who was a popular figure among Italian players. Fellow professionals spoke highly of him, praising his positive attitude and hunger for success.

It is all the more remarkable given the fact that tragedy marked his upbringing. Morosini lost both parents as a teenager, and his younger brother recently committed suicide.

He is survived only by his older sister, who is physically handicapped and in need of care.

Di Natale and his Udinese teammates have assured the public that they will help Morosini's sister. Livorno players are expected to offer financial support as well.

Livorno, where Morosini was playing on loan, announced it will retire his number 25 jersey. Vicenza, where Morosini played on loan last season, will do the same.

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Thumbnail photo via Flickr/A.A.S.

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