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The incredible fortune that Gennaro Gattuso collected just by removing his beard

The former Valencia coach, now leading Hajduk Split, shaves his beard after 22 years to support men’s health and cancer awareness.

By Sebastián Hernadez

Photo: social networks of Gennaro Gattuso.
Photo: social networks of Gennaro Gattuso.

Gennaro Gattuso, the former coach of Valencia and current manager of Hajduk Split, has made headlines by shaving off the iconic beard he had worn since his playing days at Milan in 2002. The decision was made to raise funds for the Bearded Auction, a charity initiative aimed at promoting men's health and supporting the fight against cancer.

Gattuso’s 22-Year Beard Shave

Gattuso’s beard, a symbol of his persona throughout his football career, was shaved off in exchange for 10,000 euros. The overall campaign has raised an impressive total of 150,000 euros. Gattuso, along with his players Zvonimir ?arlija and Matej Sunara, who play under his management at Hajduk Split, also took part in the fundraising effort by shaving their own beards.

The Bearded Auction campaign has been a tremendous success, with 250 beards and mustaches shaved off. Additionally, 350 medical check-ups were conducted as part of the initiative, highlighting the campaign’s focus on both raising awareness and providing practical health services. The funds raised will be allocated to cancer prevention and treatment programs in Croatian cities like Split, Vinkovci, and Pula.

Gattuso’s Journey From Player to Coach

Gennaro Gattuso has been a well-known figure in football for decades, from his time as a fiery and passionate midfielder to his transition into management. After retiring from playing in 2013, having made 467 appearances for Milan, Gattuso took over as manager of the Swiss club Sion, where he had finished his playing career. He then moved on to manage teams in Italy, including Palermo, Pisa, Milan, and Napoli, before taking the reins at Valencia. In 2024, he began his managerial tenure in Croatia with Hajduk Split, marking another chapter in his career.

Key Points About Gattuso’s Charity Effort and Career

  • Iconic Beard Shave: Gattuso shaved off his beard after 22 years for the Bearded Auction charity campaign.
  • Fundraising Success: The campaign raised 150,000 euros, with Gattuso, his players, and other participants shaving 250 beards and mustaches.
  • Medical Support: 350 medical check-ups were conducted as part of the initiative, helping to support men’s health and cancer prevention.
  • Charity Allocation: The raised funds will go towards cancer programs in Croatian cities, benefiting local communities.
  • Managerial Journey: Gattuso has managed several clubs, including Valencia, Napoli, and now Hajduk Split, following a successful playing career at Milan.

Sebastián  Hernadez

Sebastián Hernadez

I am Sebastián Hernández Cárdenas, a Colombian sports journalist born in the vibrant city of Barranquilla, Colombia. With an innate passion for sports, I have dedicated my career to covering the most important events and news in the sports world.I have been fortunate to work in some of the most prestigious media outlets in Colombia and Latin America. I was part of the ESPN team, where I covered high-level sporting events and interviewed personalities from the world of sports. I have also worked ...

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