In the world of professional football, they say life begins at 40. But that’s often more of a metaphorical statement, not an age where players make their international debuts. Yet, there’s always room for exceptions, and one such exception is San Marino defender Roberto di Maio, who is proving that age is just a number.
Roberto di Maio’s journey to becoming the oldest debutant in Uefa competition at the age of 40 years and 193 days is nothing short of inspirational. He started this remarkable chapter of his career during the Euro 2024 qualifier against Northern Ireland. While the 2-0 loss that followed might not have been surprising, it marked a historic moment in the world of international football.
San Marino, often considered the minnows of international football, hasn’t seen a victory in 132 games and currently resides at the 207th position in the FIFA world rankings. But Di Maio’s passion and determination are unwavering. As he prepares for the reverse fixture at Windsor Park, the 41-year-old defender’s commitment to the sport is nothing short of commendable.
“I was hugely proud to play for San Marino,” he said. “It was one of those games where I didn’t need to psyche myself up. My adrenaline was so high, I could have run for two hours without stopping.”
Di Maio’s story is a testament to the love and dedication that players like him have for the beautiful game. He moved to San Marino in 2003 and met his wife, Cristina, while playing domestic football. He has since embarked on a journeyman career, featuring in more than 560 games, including a stint in Serie B with clubs like Nocerina, Lecce, and Catanzaro.
Becoming an official citizen of San Marino in January 2023 after a decade of marriage and administrative delays, Di Maio now plays for SS Cosmos in San Marino’s amateur league championship. Only a couple of his national squad teammates are professionals, as the rest have day jobs such as car salesman, accountant, and painter-decorator or are attending university.
“We certainly don’t do it for the money, it’s for a passion we have,” he said. “I’ve lived here for many years; San Marino adopted me and has become my home.”
Di Maio’s contributions to San Marino football extend beyond the pitch. He works as an academy coach, overseeing the under-17 team, a role that brings him in contact with his former pupils. “From now on, you don’t have to call me gaffer, it’s Roberto,” he told them in his first session, emphasizing the camaraderie that defines the team.
Playing all six of San Marino’s Euro 2024 qualifiers this year, Di Maio faced some formidable opponents. In one game, he marked Manchester United midfielder Christian Eriksen, someone he describes as a football embodiment to inspire his younger charges.
Di Maio acknowledges the challenges they face but believes that with a strong defensive mindset, they can aim for positive results. “If we can focus, sacrifice, and help one another, we can get a positive result. That could be losing 4-0 to Denmark or only conceding 60 minutes in against Slovenia,” he says, underlining their determination to improve.
San Marino’s quest for victory has been long and challenging, with their only official win coming in 2004 against Liechtenstein. While it’s difficult in qualifiers where they face top-tier teams, there’s hope in competitions like the Nations League, where they might have a chance to showcase their potential against teams closer to their level.
As they prepare to face Northern Ireland at Windsor Park, Di Maio knows it won’t be easy, but he remains hopeful. “It’s down to us to exploit that. The more time goes by, the more nervous they’ll get. If we manage to hold the match in deadlock, maybe we can come away with a good result. That would be a dream.”
Di Maio’s words resonate with the essence of football—the passion, the dream, and the determination. While some may question the presence of underdog nations in international competitions, Di Maio firmly believes that the dream of every nation, no matter how small, should be cherished.
With a population smaller than that of Accrington, San Marino faces certain limitations, but Di Maio sees a way forward by building their youth base and sending players to Italy for professional experience. “To try to get better in some way, playing friendlies and getting results. Seeing it from the inside a bit, we are making positive changes.”
For now, Di Maio is determined to make the most of every moment in San Marino’s sky blue kit. His passion and desire at 41 serve as an inspiration to all who love the beautiful game. “The moment I realize my body can’t do the things my mind asks, I’ll pack it in. I’m taking it day by day, match by match – and I’m loving it.”
Roberto di Maio’s story is a reminder that in the world of sports, passion, dedication, and the love for the game can transcend age and limitations, making every match a chance to chase a dream.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Footballing Resilience
Question: Who is Roberto di Maio, and why is he in the spotlight?
Answer: Roberto di Maio is a 41-year-old San Marino defender who gained attention for becoming the oldest debutant in Uefa competition. His remarkable journey, passion for the game, and resilience have brought him into the spotlight.
Question: What records did Roberto di Maio break with his international debut?
Answer: Roberto di Maio made history by becoming the oldest player to make his senior international debut in Uefa competition at the age of 40 years and 193 days.
Question: How has San Marino’s football team performed in recent years?
Answer: San Marino’s football team, often considered the underdogs, has struggled to secure victories, with their last win dating back to 2004. They are currently ranked 207th in the FIFA world rankings.
Question: What drives Roberto di Maio to continue playing for San Marino?
Answer: Despite the team’s challenging record, Roberto di Maio’s passion for the sport and love for San Marino have motivated him to keep playing. He believes in the dream of representing his nation on the international stage.
Question: What are Di Maio’s thoughts on the presence of underdog nations in international competitions?
Answer: Di Maio firmly believes that every nation, regardless of size, has the right to pursue their footballing dreams and should not be excluded from international competitions.
Question: What is the future outlook for San Marino’s football team?
Answer: San Marino aims to improve by building its youth base and sending players to gain professional experience in Italy. The team hopes to become more competitive, particularly in competitions like the Nations League.
Question: How long does Roberto di Maio plan to continue his football career?
Answer: Di Maio plans to continue playing for as long as his body allows. He takes it match by match and remains determined to inspire others with his passion and dedication to the game.
More about Footballing Resilience
- Roberto di Maio’s Oldest Debutant Record
- San Marino National Football Team
- FIFA World Rankings
- Underdog Nations in International Football
- San Marino’s Football Future
- Footballing Passion and Dedication
2 comments
wow! di Maio, real legend in the making, playin’ at 40?! ain’t that sumthin’! ❤️
His story’s inspiring, no doubt. If any1 says age matters in sports, they need to read this ASAP.