The Italian captain on the eve of the debut match against Albania: “It’s the most insidious challenge, we have a difficult group. We need to stay on top of things”
“When you face a competition like this the energy comes naturally, the spirit will be that of three years ago. Let’s try to retrace those magical nights again. The team is ready“. The captain of the Italian national team said this, Gianluigi Donnarumma, in a press conference on the eve of the match againstAlbaniathe Azzurri’s first match Euro 2024. “I try to give everything, to give advice to the team, but the group is ready, they won’t need it”, added the goalkeeper.
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THE WORDS OF DONNARUMMA
With what spirit will you face this European Championship? Do you feel like the leader of this team?
The energy in these competitions comes naturally to you. We will try to retrace those magical nights of 2021, the team is ready and I will try to give everything and my advice even if the team is ready and doesn’t need it. Those who have experienced the emotions of the last time will certainly be able to give something more.
Is this the hardest game to start with?
The debut is certainly the most insidious challenge. The group is difficult and in the match against Albania there were pitfalls, we will have to stay focused and on track from the start. We can’t play at 80%, then we think game after game.
Albania won their group: what are the strengths?
For me they are a quick and fast team, with strong individuals. We will have to be careful not to overextend ourselves and find ourselves on the counterattack. Compactness and balance will be needed throughout the match.
What rules do you have to follow on retreat? Videogames?
They had no impact, the important thing is to have balance. You can play video games in your room, but the important thing is not to be late at night. After dinner we all hang out in the games room, spend time together and have fun. A good group has been created, those of the coach are indications and advice.
You are the captain: how much does it change for you?
For me it doesn’t change, but it’s certainly an added responsibility. There are several leaders in this group and I will also make myself heard by trying to give my best. We want to write another page of history for Italy.
Do you prefer a three or four defense?
As a goalkeeper, little changes for me, the important thing is how you interpret each role. We need compactness in the two phases, but for me it doesn’t change.
Is it mandatory to win against Albania?
Winning tomorrow means putting a building block towards qualification, the first race is always important. The group is difficult and getting the three points is important, otherwise we would have even more pressure in the next two games.
How important is Buffon’s presence?
It definitely helps a lot. It leaves you with a lot, hearing him talk about it and giving even more advice.”
Who will talk to the referee in your place in the middle of the pitch?
I will speak near my area, otherwise we will decide who between Jorginho or Barella will be in charge.
Can we solve the center forward problem with Scamacca?
He’s made great strides lately, he’s done incredible things. It can make a difference in every situation and is important as a point of reference.
DONNARUMMA ON SKY: “FANS ON THE FIELD WITH US FOR THE DREAM”
– Then speaking to Sky, the Italian captain underlined: “Dreaming costs nothing, we certainly need the fans and their energy. They will be on the pitch with us and will be our strength. We all dream and hope to give everyone the Italians magical nights like three years ago. That’s the dream. We are a very young group, but some are very experienced and there is no problem. The older ones also have to think about the newcomers, but they too have adapted well there will be no problem. We are united, strong and ready for this story in which we hope to get as far as possible.”
