Matteo Darmian discussed Euro 2016 disappointment, learning from Germany and why he can’t win over Jose Mourinho at Manchester United.
The full-back spoke to Rai Sport after Italy’s 0-0 international friendly with the Germans at San Siro.
“This was an important test for us. We knew that it would never be considered a friendly against Germany and wanted to prove we could cause them problems, so I believe we did play as a team tonight.
Matteo Darmian discussed Euro 2016 disappointment, learning from Germany and why he can’t win over Jose Mourinho at Manchester United.
The full-back spoke to Rai Sport after Italy’s 0-0 international friendly with the Germans at San Siro.
“This was an important test for us. We knew that it would never be considered a friendly against Germany and wanted to prove we could cause them problems, so I believe we did play as a team tonight.
“We were all fighting for the victory. Unfortunately it did not arrive, but we’re laying the foundations to begin an important new journey.
“(Giampiero) Ventura is trying to introduce a lot of young players and that’s only right. Those of us who are a bit more experienced must help them to give their best and I have to say the newcomers have shown great effort and settled in very quickly.
“It’s natural that going out at Euro 2016 was a huge disappointment, not so much about the penalties, but for the enthusiasm, unity and solidity we had created. If we had gone through, I think we would’ve achieved something remarkable.
“They say penalties are a lottery, but we built up so much determination from that moment that we’re using it for the future.”
Why has Darmian failed to break through under Mourinho at Manchester United?
“I don’t know why, that’s a difficult question to answer. The Coach has to make his decisions and we players have to accept them. I always worked hard and gave my best when called upon and I’ll continue to do that.
“I certainly don’t lack determination and that is fundamental, especially during a period where you don’t play as much. From Day One I have put myself at the disposal of the team and tried to prove myself to the Coach.”
Darmian was asked if he will return to Italy in January, as he has been strongly linked with Inter.
“I don’t know, it’s early to talk about the transfer market. Tomorrow I return to Manchester and we have an important match against Arsenal, one everyone wants to play in.”