Simone Padoin penned a heartfelt letter to Juventus fans upon his departure, expressing his gratitude for their unwavering support during his five years with the club. Acknowledging his unusual step of using social media (via his wife`s account, as he doesn`t have his own), Padoin felt compelled to personally thank the Bianconeri faithful. He admitted that simple words couldn`t fully convey his appreciation for the Juventus environment. He described mixed emotions: excitement for his new chapter and a pang of sadness leaving behind a significant part of his career.
His thanks began with his teammates, each of whom left a special mark on him. He cherished the unity and strength of the group, considering it an immense honor to have played alongside them and thanking them for making him feel valued. He extended his gratitude to the coaching staffs of both Antonio Conte and Massimiliano Allegri, from whom he learned invaluable lessons. Padoin also acknowledged the essential contributions of the support staff – from medical personnel and kit managers to marketing and those working tirelessly behind the scenes.
The Juventus management, including the President, directors Marotta and Paratici, and Pavel Nedved, were also praised for creating a club constantly striving for improvement, setting a benchmark in Italy and aiming for European dominance. He thanked them for the opportunity to compete at the highest level, including the Champions League. Turin, the city where his children were born, received a special mention as a place filled with wonderful family memories.
Finally, Padoin`s deepest thanks were reserved for the fans. He recognized that while his skills might have been modest for Juventus` standards, he always aimed to honor the jersey by giving his all. He expressed humility at their compliments, feeling undeserving yet eternally grateful for their appreciation. Leaving with happiness, satisfaction, and pride, Padoin felt he had contributed, even in a small way, to the club`s triumphs over the past five years.
In short, Padoin`s message was a resounding “THANK YOU, JUVE!!!!” He signed off with affection and best wishes for the future.
After four and a half years, Simone Padoin and Juventus parted ways. At 32, the versatile midfielder and defender, having achieved significant success with Juventus, joined Cagliari, reuniting with former Bianconeri teammate Marco Storari and seeking more playing time. Adored by Juventus fans, Padoin bid farewell with a touching letter. He became more than just a player; he was a totem, a lucky charm after winning five consecutive league titles. Now, he would have the chance to be a key player in a leading role.
Following a season with limited minutes, Padoin accepted Cagliari`s offer, leaving a void at Juventus. His reliability and readiness were rare qualities, posing a challenge for coach Allegri in forging a new chapter of success without him. Padoin`s arrival in January 2012, at Conte`s request, marked the beginning of an unbroken winning streak. He shared the five league titles with Juventus legends like Buffon, Barzagli, Bonucci, Cáceres, and Marchisio, along with two Coppa Italia titles and three Italian Super Cups, and played in the Champions League final in Berlin, where fans famously chanted, “Who needs Leo Messi, we have Padoin.”
An exemplary professional, Padoin consistently contributed reliably, embodying the Juventus ethos of prioritizing the person before the player. A quiet yet impactful presence, he earned the respect of the dressing room and became a valuable asset for coaches. Achieving “Padoin” status at Juventus, becoming a talisman, requires time, professionalism, and is not easily replicated.
Padoin`s Juventus journey began on the last day of the January 2011 transfer window. Conte, familiar with him from Atalanta, brought him in during a challenging season. Despite initial non-selections, Padoin eventually played, even scoring a memorable goal against Fiorentina. He became a part of that championship-winning team and continued to be a valuable squad member in subsequent years.
His fourth season was particularly noteworthy, with 18 starts, including in the Champions League, and a tactical shift to left-back. His solid performances there earned him genuine admiration, proving his capabilities beyond just fan affection. Defensively sound and reliable, he became a crucial tactical alternative, even a season-saver. He ranked as Allegri`s 14th most used player in a remarkable season.
However, after a difficult game against Roma where he played out of position, the “Padoin era” seemed to diminish. Despite this, he remained professional, never complaining and always training diligently. His resilience was evident when he scored a great goal against Palermo, celebrated by the entire team. Padoin`s departure was marked by stadium ovations and a heartfelt farewell message, solidifying his legacy as a winner both professionally and personally.
His move to Cagliari was seen as a positive step, offering him a chance to play a leading role again. While acknowledging he might not be a top-tier Juventus player, the writer expressed hope for Padoin to rediscover his joy of playing, reminding everyone of his quality before becoming a “humble soldier” at Juventus, and to once again be recognized as a key player.
Simone Padoin`s journey began humbly in the provinces, built on hard work and dedication. Central to his story is Valentina, his partner, described as more important than any coach, his soulmate. As Padoin reached the pinnacle of his career at Juventus, Valentina pursued her dream of opening her own fashion atelier.
Their relationship began in 2002 in Bergamo. Valentina recalls their immediate connection, describing Simone as humility and simplicity personified. She emphasized his Juventus move was earned through hard work, recalling her joy and encouragement when he told her about the opportunity.
In February 2013, Valentina launched the Simone Padoin Atelier, a high-fashion boutique in Seriate. Despite challenging economic times, they embraced the venture as their own, built from scratch. Simone, while still playing, was already considering his post-football future, envisioning himself in Bergamo, possibly running a soccer school or supporting Valentina`s business.
After eight years of dating, they married in 2010. His passion for football started in Gemona del Friuli, cycling to the field as a child. He played for Gemonese and Donatello di Udine before joining Atalanta at 14.
Padoin excelled academically, graduating with high marks. He enjoyed skiing and now follows tennis, admiring Rafael Nadal. He has a dog named Toby, shared a room with Andrea Barzagli on retreats, and his closest friend in football is Daniele Capelli. He enjoys Giorgio Faletti`s books, admires LeBron James, watches “X Factor,” and aspires to meet Pope Francis like Carlos Tevez.
The Juventus move materialized quickly in January 2012. His agent informed him of their interest, requiring an immediate decision. He and Valentina discussed it, and he was convinced after witnessing Juventus`s impressive team spirit firsthand when playing against them with Atalanta. Joining Juventus, he immediately won the league title and Super Cup, marking the beginning of his successful and passionate journey with the club, always alongside Valentina.