Italy captain Giorgio Chiellini dedicated the EURO 2020 triumph to President Sergio Mattarella, ‘the millions of Italians in the world’ and former defender Davide Astori.
The Azzurri lifted the UEFA Euro 2020 trophy last night and Chiellini dedicated the win to former Italy defender Astori, who died in his sleep prior to Fiorentina’s match against Udinese.
The 36-year-old spoke at the Quirinale in the presence of Mattarella, the President of the Republic.
“Dear President, allow me to thank you on behalf of myself and the team,” Chiellini said at the Quirinale. “Your presence was an important gesture.
“We wanted to dedicate the win to you and the millions of Italians in the world who have never made us feel alone, accompanying us on the journey.
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“We extend the dedication to Davide Astori, we would have liked to have him here with us, he is always present in the thoughts and hearts of those who met him.
“This is a group that has never lost heart, even in difficulties, supporting each other and putting the interest of the team before the individual.
“If we are here today, it’s not only for an extra penalty scored, but because we transformed by sharing our friendship, one of the most beautiful feelings in life.
“Matteo [Berrettini], in recent weeks you made us dream, we cheered as if you were a teammate. Don’t stop. This bond made us feel like brothers of Italy, ready for it all and for the call of the country we love.”