Life after football isn't always easy, not even for those who shined on the biggest stages. Gianluca Zambrotta, remembered for his time with clubs like Juventus, AC Milan, and FC Barcelona, and for lifting the World Cup with Italy in 2006, is currently going through a difficult personal time due to a condition that is seriously affecting his legs.

Although his career was marked by physical strength and the absence of major injuries, the former full-back recently revealed on the 'Bsmt' podcast, hosted by Gianluca Gazzoli, that he is suffering from genu varum, a condition that has caused a progressive bowing of his legs. Now 46, Zambrotta is preparing for a complex surgery that could greatly impact his quality of life.

"During my career, I didn’t suffer any serious injuries. I only had three operations on my inner meniscus, but now I have none left—neither in my left nor my right knee," said the ex-footballer. This lack of menisci has deformed the structure of his legs over time, to the point where, in his own words, he has become “a lab model for many surgeons.”

A Surgery to Delay the Inevitable

His condition has worsened to the point that Zambrotta will soon undergo an osteotomy—a surgical procedure in which small parts of the bone above and below the knees are cut and plates are inserted to realign his legs. The goal is to postpone the need for full knee prosthetics, although he acknowledges that this outcome is ultimately unavoidable.

"I’ve consulted with several top national surgeons, and none of them can understand how I’m still able to walk or play sports like padel," he confessed. Despite that, he remains hopeful that he can continue to lead an active life after the procedure, even if with some limitations.

Zambrotta's case highlights a lesser-known side of football: the long-term effects of the physical demands placed on elite athletes. Far from the spotlight and glory, many former players continue to fight new battles—this time, against their own bodies.