A German football enthusiast is embarking on a heartfelt journey to honor his late Argentinian grandfather by collecting signatures from every member of Argentina's victorious 2022 World Cup team on a handcrafted replica trophy. Gabriel Goldack, driven by memories of his football-passionate grandfather who missed witnessing this historic win, has already secured the signatures of 23 players and aims to complete his collection with the final four autographs, including that of Lionel Messi.
Pursuing Signatures Across Borders
In the vibrant autumn of European football, Gabriel Goldack, hailing from Cologne, embarked on an extraordinary mission inspired by the legacy of his beloved grandfather. With a meticulously crafted replica trophy produced over nine months by an Argentinian artist, Goldack set out across Europe in pursuit of signatures from the entire triumphant squad of Argentina’s 2022 World Cup victory. His journey recently brought him to Birmingham, where he successfully obtained the signature of Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez after a lengthy wait outside the club’s training grounds. Speaking passionately in Spanish and waving an Argentinian flag, Goldack managed to intrigue Martínez, leading to a memorable encounter filled with mutual admiration and respect.
Goldack's odyssey includes not only securing player autographs but also engaging deeply with fans and fellow enthusiasts along the way. Each interaction enriches his personal tribute while fostering connections through shared passions for football and family legacies. Only four more signatures remain—Franco Armani, German Pezzella, Marcos Acuña, and most notably, Lionel Messi—before he can finalize his project. To achieve these last endorsements, Goldack plans to travel to Argentina and continue reaching out to Messi through various channels despite yet receiving a direct response.
Upon completion, Goldack envisions displaying the signed replica alongside his grandfather's ashes as a lasting memorial to Jorge Enrique Goldsack Pastor, affectionately known as "Quito." Known for his fervent love of football extending even to obscure leagues worldwide, Quito frequently lamented perceived injustices against Messi in international competitions. This tribute serves both as a celebration of Argentina's triumph and a bridge connecting generations through sport.
While nearing the end of his endeavor brings immense satisfaction, it also evokes bittersweet emotions for Goldack. Sharing adventures with his girlfriend throughout Europe has transformed their relationship into one resembling thrilling treasure hunts at diverse locations such as training facilities and hotels. Balancing excitement about finishing the replica with reluctance to conclude this meaningful chapter adds complexity to his journey.
From a journalist's perspective, Goldack's story exemplifies how sports transcend mere competition; they embody narratives of heritage, dedication, and human connection. His unwavering commitment to honoring a cherished relative reminds us all of the profound impact our loved ones leave behind and inspires similar acts of remembrance within our own lives. Through perseverance and creativity, Goldack demonstrates that tributes need not be conventional—they can take shape in unique ways like collecting signatures on a beautifully crafted replica trophy.