"He takes opportunities. I need an opportunist."
This is a thread about Paolo Rossi and Enzo Bearzot.
The astonishing journey from shame to fame during a week's time.
And why he will remain forever special.

April 28, 1982.
The World Cup in Spain is exactly 45 days away.
Paolo Rossi has not played competitive football for two years and no one expects him to be in the squad for the World Cup.
Match-fit and well prepared players are required for a tournament of such stature.

It all began in 1980.
While on loan to Perugia from Lanerossi Vicenza, Rossi had been accused of accepting money to influence the outcome of Perugia's game against Avellino.

The investigation found him guilty.
A three-year ban.
Later reduced to two.
Juventus bought the shamed striker. Got him rather on the cheap.
He was free to play again on April 29, 1982.

He appears in the final three games of Juventus' championship winning season.
He looks good but surely not good enough to go to Spain!
But Enzo Bearzot, Italy's pipe-chomping manager has other ideas.
"He takes opportunities. I need an opportunist."