By Daily Sports on December 1, 2017

Former Italy striker Francesco Totti on Thursday said accepting the end of a legendary footballing career was tough.

He told newsmen that “at the beginning, I was talking to myself like a madman, I’m injured, I’m suspended, I’ll be back in a kit soon, though I’ve got used to it now.”

Totti said he struggled with switching off from a routine of “waking up early, having breakfast and then going to training, like a machine. “Now I have to plan my days. The impact has not been easy, though I still train every day to let off a bit of steam and to stay fit.

“If I let myself go, I’ll go up to 300 kilogrammes, for now, I’ve put on at most a couple.”

The 41-year-old hung up his boots in May, breaking down in tears after a 3-2 home win against Genoa that sealed his 25-year playing career with Roma, his boyhood club.

He has no regrets at turning down offers from Real Madrid, the Emirates and the United States.

“I would have made lots of money, but I would have ruined a 25-year-old love affair with Roma,’’ he said.

Totti said that out of current stars he prefers Lionel Messi to Cristiano Ronaldo, and singled out tennis champion Roger Federer as his sporting hero, who “does not even sweat when he plays.”

•Photo shows Francesco Totti.

Source Daily Sports

Posted December 1, 2017

Kelechi Emeteole burial fix for August 18

Bassey doubtful for Saudi friendly

Ronaldo Injured as Portugal Held By Serbia

Bellew defends WBC world cruiserweight title by stopping...

Zola expecting more from Hazard

Hazard ‘Ready’ For Madrid Return, Says Zidane