Giorgio Chiellini claims Italy are enjoying their football so much at Euro 2020 that the performances ‘feel almost easy.’
They are seeking a third win out of three in Group A after sweeping Turkey and Switzerland aside 3-0, and they take on Wales at the Stadio Olimpico on Sunday at 17.00 UK time.
“Our objective must be starting out to win,” Chiellini told the official Italy social media account.
“We need the perfect balance between enthusiasm, calm and a pinch of madness, without the pressure of feeling we absolutely need to hit out target.
“The team is getting there with performances that feel almost easy, as if we can play without feeling tired. We have to continue what we’re doing now.”
Some of that attitude is down to the unity of the squad, which has been mentioned by most players and coach Roberto Mancini.
“When you wear the Azzurri jersey, you no longer represent Milan, Juventus, Inter, Napoli, Roma or any other club. It’s just Italy, you represent an entire nation.
“There’s a lot of responsibility too, there’s no point denying it, and we feel that from everyone around us. The fact this is my fourth Euros allows me to really enjoy the experience without the tension I had earlier in my career.”
Chiellini also reveals who sets the playlists for the team bus and train journeys.
“We have Lorenzo Insigne and Alessandro Florenzi as our DJs. There are many Neapolitan songs and I had to learn the chorus so I could participate…”