Marco Ambrosio, Chelsea's Forgotten Champions League Hero Now Chooses To Be A Professional Rally Driver

JAKARTA - Former Chelsea goalkeeper in the 2003-2004 era, Marco Ambrosio chose a career away from the gridiron after retiring. Ambrosio is now a professional rally racer in Italy.

Marco Ambrosio's name was not too flashy with the Blues in that era. Because he was only a substitute goalkeeper when compatriot Carlo Cudicini was absent.

In the 2003-2004 era, Ambrosio also counted only eight appearances for the Blues. However, Ambrosio actually became Chelsea's savior when appearing in the 2004 Champions League.

At that time Chelsea faced Arsenal at Highbury Stadium. Wayne Bridge's late goal stunned the Gunners, but had it not been for some fine saves from Ambrosio, things might have looked a lot different.

Chelsea had not beaten Arsenal in 15 meetings in that time, but the Blues' 3-2 aggregate win saw them head into the Champions League semi-finals.

Quoted from the Daily Mail, at that time, Ambrosio could be called a hero for the Blues. This is what keeps him at Stamford Bridge. However, then he realized that he was not too special because his position was only a back-up player.

“I love London, and I really want to stay. Hopefully, when the season ends, the boss will give me a sign that I'm here for another year. That would make me very happy,” said Ambrosio.

"I know I'm only playing until he comes back (Cudicini). When he comes back I will be on the bench. That's normal, because he's the first choice. I really like him and I hope he can play in the Champions League Final.

“I am happy because I have shown the fans, my team-mates and the Chelsea management that I am capable of playing for Chelsea. That's enough for me," said Ambrosio at the time.

After confirming his desire to stay, Ambrosio actually left in 2004 due to the presence of Petr Cech which meant a sign that his time was up at Stamford Bridge.

After retiring in 2009, the 49-year-old man strayed far from his former career. Instead of being a coach or manager on the gridiron, Ambrosio chose to continue his career as a rally car racer.

This can be seen from the many uploads on social media where the former Premier League player shows off his sports car.

With only 476 followers on Instagram, Ambrosio is still diligent in uploading photos of his racing activities and his family's activities in Italy.