Cordovado, May 31, 2026 – The Parma Legends were back on the pitch for the tenth “Marco Giovannelli” Memorial, held at the Stadio Comunale in Cordovado for a weekend that brought together football, remembrance and solidarity.
Once again, the players who made history for the club took part in a meaningful event, showing how the Legends’ spirit goes far beyond results, celebrating identity, memories and a strong sense of belonging.
For the Parma Calcio 1913 legends, it was a strong turnout and a meaningful occasion, with a squad that brought many of the club’s historic figures back onto the pitch. The players called up by president Paolo Benecchi and vice-president Egidio Savi were: Luca Mondini, Leo Martinez, Marco Giandebiaggi, Alberto Di Chiara, Luigi Apolloni, Massimo Susic, Alessandro Melli, Davide Giorgino, Filippo Maniero, Marco Ballotta, Matteo Guardalben, Roberto Mattioli, Filippo Savi and Fausto Pizzi. Leading the side was none other than coach Nevio Scala.
The away trip began late on the morning of Saturday 30 May, with departure from the Stadio Tardini at 12:00, a lunch stop in Ferrara, and arrival in Cordovado in the late afternoon ahead of kick-off. At the end of the first day, the group shared a dinner with other former players and fans. The team returned to the city the next morning.
The highlight of the event was the triangular tournament played on Saturday at 19:00, featuring the Parma Legends, Udinese Legends and the “Friends of Marco” in a highly participatory and heartfelt atmosphere. It was a special occasion played in memory of Marco Giovannelli and in the spirit of the values this Memorial has upheld for many years. Parma beat the Udinese legends (with a goal by Melli) but lost to the “Friends of Marco”, finishing their trip to Friuli with one win and one defeat.
The proceeds from the event were donated to little Sofia and the “Fondo del Cuore”, reaffirming the charitable mission that lies at the heart of the Giovannelli Memorial, which has grown over time into a key event not only in sporting terms but also on a social level.
