Alessandro Bastoni reveals Roberto Mancini tells Italy to ‘enjoy our football’ and he is trying to learn all he can from legendary defenders.
The Inter defender was thrown into the starting XI for injured Giorgio Chiellini in a 1-0 victory over Wales.
“It’s always wonderful to be in front of the fans after a year and a half of suffering, both for us and for them,” Bastoni told RAI Sport.
“The coach never fires us up too much, he just tells us to enjoy our football and keep doing what we’re doing.”
Mancini made eight changes to the starting XI that beat Switzerland, keeping only Leonardo Bonucci, Jorginho and goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.
“We showed that despite the rotation, we are still a great group and can put in a strong performance. I always waited for my moment and tried to take every opportunity, so I am in no rush. Meanwhile, I’ll try to steal some secrets of the profession from champions who have won for 10 years in a row.
“Chiellini, Bonucci and the others have so much experience, it’s a real pleasure to enjoy their company, both on and off the field.”
Bastoni earned his chance to play at Euro 2020 thanks to a very impressive season, winning the Scudetto with Inter.
“It’s a dream, just two years ago I was at Parma and didn’t know how my career would continue. We now hope to go as far as possible.”