FCZ legends have no concerns about young people

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Before the FCZ beat St. Gallen 1-0, there is a big gathering of FCZ legends in Ristorante Da Cono right next to the Letzigrund. About 30 all-stars talk about the current situation in the table cellar and in the past during lunch.

Some represent successful times, others less successful times. A pair for both. Such as Ruedi Landolt (65), captain of relegation and promotion in 1988 and 1990 respectively. Landolt is optimistic about staying in the league. “My gut says Zion must go to the barrage.”

Güntensperger still plays football

Pius Fischbach (74), who defended for FCZ in the 1970s, is just as optimistic as Urs “Longo” Schönenberger (64) and striker Urs Güntensperger (55). This is now kicking in the veterans. “I’m not as fast as I used to be and I play in midfield now, but it’s still fun.” Last season the FCZ fans were spoiled, says Güntensperger, “now we have to suffer again, but I’m optimistic, the attitude is good”.

Ernst Meyer (81), a strong winger in his sixties, doesn’t often go to the stadium anymore. “Only when we meet in this circle,” says Meyer, “does a visit to the stadium become too tiring for me. But my grandchildren are always in the stadium, they also traveled to the Netherlands and England this season.” In addition to the three national titles and the cup win, his personal highlight in the FCZ kit is the friendly match against Santos. In the only appearance of footballer of the century Pelé in Switzerland, FCZ wins 5:4 and Meyer even scores a goal. “The photo with Pelé still makes me proud.”

Kiwic, Stahel & Co. – A young generation is emerging

Before the meal, a minute of mourning is held for former FCZ VR member Hugo Hollenstein, who recently passed away at the age of 79. Since the All Stars were founded 17 years ago, there has always been an empty seat. Fischbach: “It is sad that many of the former buddies are no longer with us. But that’s life. We all don’t know what tomorrow will bring.”

A younger generation is slowly making its way into the All-Stars. Martina Moser (37) and Rahel Kiwic (32) are there, as are Florian Stahel (38) and David Da Costa (37). Kiwic, 7 championship and 3 cup titles with FCZ, is happy: “It’s a great event and I think it’s great that we can be part of it. The combination fits.”

After dessert, about an hour before kick-off in the Letzigrund, Matthias Hüppi drops by for a cup of coffee. The FCSG chairman accepted the invitation of former FCZ and former player of St. Gallen Kurt Grünig (79), who organizes the meetings. Hüppi gives a short impromptu speech. In contrast to the FCZ fighters, he has little to laugh about after the match.

Source : Blick