Manuel Rui Costa Returns to Florence for Fiorentina's 100th Anniversary Legends Match

Manuel Rui Costa returned to Florence following a 25-year absence to take part in Fiorentina's centenary legends match on September 2, 2026. The Portuguese icon joined the Fiorentina All-Stars team, which won 7-3 against Operazione Nostalgia at the Stadio Artemio Franchi.

The event was a gathering of some of the club’s greatest names, including Gabriel Batistuta, Roberto Baggio, and Franck Ribery. Rui Costa’s presence was one of the highlights for the 20,000 fans present that day.

A Deep Connection and a Wish for Future Success

Rui Costa shared that his return was motivated by a strong emotional bond with Florence, where he spent seven important years of his career. "I didn't come here just to please people, but for myself," he said. "Those seven years were the most beautiful of my life, and I wanted to relive those feelings tonight."

He also spoke openly about his hopes for Fiorentina’s future: "Winning the Coppa Italia in 2001 as captain was the proudest moment of my career. Honestly, it bothers me that I am still the last captain to bring a trophy to this club. Florence and Fiorentina deserve to celebrate victory again."

Franck Ribery Rekindles His Love for the Viola

Franck Ribery expressed his excitement to wear the purple jersey once more, playing alongside former teammate Luca Toni. "Seeing all these fans is incredible! When we touched the ball again, my passion for football came flooding back," Ribery said. He also thanked the supporters and everyone involved in making the centenary festivities special.

Celebrations Highlight Fiorentina’s Rich History

The legends match was the culmination of a week filled with events across Florence, featuring a torchlight procession by Curva Fiesole fans and purple lights illuminating historic city landmarks. While Fiorentina’s current squad faces early Serie A challenges, the celebrations served as a reminder of the club’s proud legacy.

As the legends, including Rui Costa, left Florence, they expressed hope that the present generation will soon add new trophies to Fiorentina’s record.

• Match: Fiorentina All-Stars 7 - 3 Operazione Nostalgia
• Date: 2 September 2026
• Venue: Stadio Artemio Franchi, Florence
• Attendance: 20,000 supporters
• Notable Participants: Manuel Rui Costa, Gabriel Batistuta, Roberto Baggio, Franck Ribery, Luca Toni

• Upcoming Serie A Fixture: Fiorentina vs Torino
• Date & Time: 5 September 2026, 15:00