Happy birthday, Adriano!

"Football gave me confidence, a purpose in life, focus, and stability. Football is synonymous with hope for humanity."

Adriano wasn't an ordinary footballer. His style was so visceral and emotional, offering unfiltered talent and pure passion. The Brazilian's performances for Inter through which he scored 74 goals were a continuation of how he used to play on dirt pitches as a child growing up in Vila Cruzeiro; showing the same focus and hunger.

The way Adriano 'The Emperor' played inspired hope in those from a similar background wishing to follow in his footsteps. Only a few days after joining Inter the Brazilian scored a wonderful free kick at the Santiago Bernabeu, introducing himself to the Nerazzurri fans and the world alike, with the same strength and determination he exuded as a child, with same left foot that he had honed at Flamengo's academy. 

"Inter is a huge part of my life; my time at the club coincided with some of the highlights of my career as well as being interwoven with some of the hardest and saddest moments of my life."

Adriano scored 74 goals in all competitions for the club and endeared himself to the Nerazzurri faithful with his potent combination of power, technique and personality. His contributions are an important and memorable part of the club's recent history, such as scoring a last-minute winner in the derby to make it 3-2, a strike in the Coppa Italia against Roma, and his amazing solo effort against Udinese. What's more, he is still Inter's leading marksman in the Champions League. Overall in his time at the club the Brazilian featured 177 times, winning four Scudetti, two Coppa Italias and three Italian Super Cups.

From everyone at the club and their supporters we would like to wish Adriano the best 40th birthday!