Giorgio Chiellini notes Italy “were considered sacrificial lambs and were creating something magical, winning back respect and the love of a nation.”
The Azzurri went out of the Euro 2016 quarter-finals in a sudden death penalty shoot-out after the 1-1 draw with Germany.
“In mid-May our adventure began, accompanied by the opinion – common among critics and fans – that this Nazionale would soon become a sacrificial lamb for many opponents,” wrote the Juventus defender on Instagram.
Giorgio Chiellini notes Italy “were considered sacrificial lambs and were creating something magical, winning back respect and the love of a nation.”
The Azzurri went out of the Euro 2016 quarter-finals in a sudden death penalty shoot-out after the 1-1 draw with Germany.
“In mid-May our adventure began, accompanied by the opinion – common among critics and fans – that this Nazionale would soon become a sacrificial lamb for many opponents,” wrote the Juventus defender on Instagram.
“But within us we were creating something magical, something that allowed us to win back everyone’s respect and above all the love of a nation.
“That same nation saw itself in us and I am convinced that, with the same union and magic shown thus far, we can emerge from this difficult period.
“There were 23 of us out there, but in reality 60 million: we were and can be a single entity!
“Hoping this month can be a starting point for everyone, I thank all those who dreamed alongside me!”