Alessandro Buongiorno was singled out for praise on his Italy debut by Roberto Mancini and thanks the coach, assuring he can ‘fit into a three-man defence or four’ when needed.
He became the 78th Torino player to represent the Azzurri, starting the 3-2 victory over the Netherlands in Enschede that allowed them to take bronze medal in the Nations League.
“It was so emotional for me to make my debut in this game, I think we gave our all and especially played well in the first half, then showed we could hold on under pressure in the second. I am grateful to coach Mancini and the squad,” Buongiorno told RAI Sport.
Curiously, it was a back four with all the defenders who regularly play in three-man systems at club level, but they still merged very well together.
“I can fit into a three-man defence or four, but my teammates were also very helpful with their advice. I thank them and am very happy.”
Italy had the better of the first half and were leading 2-0 with goals from Federico Dimarco and Davide Frattesi, but struggled more after the break.
“The Dutch were far more aggressive in their high press for the second half and transformed their approach, so the game changed, but we were solid and concentrated to bring home the result.”
There were seven changes to the starting XI from the 2-1 defeat to Spain, including Buongiorno, who had not even originally been in the squad.
He was called up at the last minute after Inter star Alessandro Bastoni pulled out with a physical problem, but has put himself firmly in the frame to replace Leonardo Bonucci long-term.
“I see the work that goes into training and the rapport between teammates, it is a spectacular group and today’s win was thanks to that bond too.”