A piece of paper found in a pair of old football shorts is understood to be Italian legend, Dino Zoff’s tactics.
The now 82-year-old footballing icon managed his national team from 1998 to 2000.
A pair of branded shorts worn by both players and staff and the piece of paper is thought to show the secrets that helped Italy reach the 2000 Euro final.
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The folded note paper was found buried in the pocket of the shorts that were worn during the former goalkeeper’s tenure.
In the paper, there are examples of different tactical setups and routines illustrated by stickmen.
The words ‘Prepare for the pass, win/conquer the ball’ are also written on the paper.
Written in Italian are the words ‘Pressing alto’ which would translate to the high press footy fans often see in today’s game.
Zoff, regarded as one of the best keepers ever, only managed Italy in that tournament.
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They lost 2-1 to France in the final, in the Netherlands, which was his last game in charge, as reported by What’s The Jam.
The 82-year-old also had experience coaching the Italian Olympic side at the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul, South Korea.
The shorts were found by workers at the Classic Football Shirts warehouse, in Manchester.
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A spokesperson said: “Have we just found some of Dino Zoff’s tactics?
“While our product team was sorting these Player/Staff spec Italy shorts, they found this piece of paper buried in the pocket.”
Football fans have been left shocked by the find.
Colin Cahalane stated: “Dedication to a stick man.”
Luke McCarthy added: “Pretty sure that says ‘pressing alto’, even in the 90s coaches couldn’t go five minutes without saying the p-word.”
Another said: “Should go in a museum, that’s amazing.”
Ryan Bromehead said: “It’s a once in a lifetime find.”
Another said: “A piece of history, great story!”
One other added: “Brilliant, love when things like this happen.”
Zoff won the World Cup as a player in 1982, aged 40.
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