Sadly, the world of football received some tragic news around Christmas days, as former Juventus midfielder Fabian O’Neil has passed away at the young age of 49.
The late Uruguayan began his playing career at Nacional before moving to Cagliari in 1996. His time at Sardinia saw several ups and downs, including two relegations to Serie B.
In 2000, he signed for Juventus, but sadly had little success during his 18 months in Turin. He made 20 appearances, contributing just one assist.
The attacking midfielder then had a brief stint at Perugia, before returning to Cagliari for a forgettable second season. Finally, he ended his career at the age of 29 after a quick stint at his original club Nacional.
O’Neil was the true definition of a mercurial talent. His former teammate Zinedine Zidane described him as the most talented player he had ever seen. But by his own admission, his career was blighted by his inner demons, which included gambling, alcoholism and troubled relationships.
After squandering his fortune on a few ill-advised investments, O’Neil spent his last years in poverty, but remained a proud man.
“Slow horses and fast women, those ruined me but now that I am poor I have found new friends, few but true”, were his words according to JuventusNews24.
ESPN (via Reuters) reported that the Uruguayan had been admitted to hospital on Saturday in a coma while bleeding due to chronic liver disease.
