Schillaci gained international fame during the 1990 World Cup, where he scored six goals, earning him the Golden Boot as the tournament’s top scorer. He also won the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player, outshining football legends like Lothar Matthäus and Diego Maradona, despite Italy finishing in third place.

Born in Palermo, Schillaci's club career was equally impressive. He played for several Italian clubs, most notably Juventus and Inter Milan, winning a UEFA Cup and Coppa Italia with Juventus, and adding another UEFA Cup with Inter. 

Schillaci later moved to Japan, where he won a J-League title with Jubilo Iwata in 1997, before retiring from football.

Diagnosed with colon cancer in 2022, Schillaci was hospitalized earlier this month in Palermo. His passing has prompted an outpouring of grief from the football community. Palermo FC expressed their condolences, and Inter Milan honored his legacy, recalling his role in inspiring the nation during the "Magic Nights" of Italia '90.