Son of Roma and Italy legend Francesco Totti retires aged just 19 and teams up with father in new job

Totti has made the decision to retire from football at the mere age of 19 after facing a lot of challenges and constant media scrutiny for not performing on the same level as his father. His career culminated with a stint at Olbia in Serie D, where he made very few appearances. In an interview with La Nuovo, Totti confirmed his choice, stating: "Yes, I'm retiring, I've decided," after months of being a free agent.

Totti's playing career unfolded under an unrelenting spotlight, where every touch and performance was inevitably compared to his illustrious father's. This immense pressure and even baseless social media criticism regarding his physique, proved to be an overwhelming burden. His journey included sparse appearances for Roma's youth sides, a stint at Frosinone's Primavera, a short spell at Rayo Vallecano's youth team, and a turbulent time at Olbia highlighting the profound challenge of carrying such a legendary surname.

In the limited opportunities and infrequent appearances for Roma's Under-17 and Under-18 teams, the Italian moved to Frosinone's Primavera squad, where he managed a single goal in four appearances. His last coach, Marco Amelia, reflecting on Totti's situation expressed: "Being Totti's son had an impact on his evaluations," highlighting the prejudice and over the top expectations that overshadowed his potential. In his final season, he played 156 minutes for Olbia across six games before his contract was terminated.

While the 19-year-old has hung up his boots, his connection to football remains strong. Totti immediately took up a contract with the Totti Soccer School, a football academy founded by his father and managed by his uncle, Riccardo. In this new endeavour, Totti will work alongside general manager Claudio D'Ulisse, focusing on scouting and nurturing budding football talent.