Francesco Totti explains why he rejected Real Madrid

The AS Roma legend has lifted the lid on his decision to turn down a transfer to Spanish giants Real Madrid.

Francesco Totti has revealed the decision to turn down a move to Real Madrid in favor of continuing at Roma came from the heart.

The legendary Italian is one of few footballers to have spent his entire career at one club, having represented Roma from 1992 to 2017.

Across a 25-year spell, Totti reached a record number of appearances (786) and goals (307) for the club. He also won a Serie A trophy, two Coppa Italia crowns, and two Supercoppa titles.

25 years. One club.

Totti was different ❤️ pic.twitter.com/A3BGX4vIP4

— B/R Football (@brfootball) October 9, 2021

Fresh from winning the 2006 World Cup with Italy, however, Totti was approached by Real Madrid and admits a ‘little bit of doubt does remain’ about his decision to not become a Galactico.

“Of course I thought about it,” the former attacker told The Guardian.

“Let’s say that there were quite a few days in which we had one foot in and one foot out. Then, I’ve said, often and truthfully, that the choice to stay with Roma was made from the heart. In those moments, when you feel like this, you can’t walk away.

“But certainly, looking back, thinking about the fact of saying no to Real Madrid, a little bit of doubt does remain.

“Real Madrid were the only other team that I could have gone to play for. The only team it could have been, I think. An experience in a different country could have been something beautiful for everyone.

“For my family. For me…”