Gianluigi Donnarumma is preparing for Italy’s tactical experiments against Venezuela and Ecuador, then admits ‘playing with the ball at your feet is fundamental’ now.
The Azzurri will face Venezuela in Fort Lauderdale on Thursday evening, then Ecuador on Sunday at the Red Bull Arena in New Jersey.
These are some of the final friendly tests that have been organised before the Euro 2024 tournament kicks off in June.
“We must prepare for the Euros in serious fashion, all games are important,” Donnarumma told Sky Sport Italia.
Coach Luciano Spalletti said he will use these matches to make some tactical experiments.
“Regardless of the system that we use, the coach will decide, we need to be ready. If there is the need, we can play with three at the back, otherwise we’ll play with four.”
Donnarumma famously struggled playing with the ball at his feet, but has improved in that respect in recent years since playing for Paris Saint-Germain.
“Playing with the ball at your feet is fundamental for modern football. We prepare every match in the right way to have tactical balance and a greater chance of hurting our opponents.”
The former Milan goalkeeper also spoke to the official FIGC social media channels.
“We are playing two tough, South American teams, so we need to prepare well and face them in the best way. Even if they are friendlies, playing them with the right mentality will get us in better shape for future matches.”
It is the first time Italy have played in the United States for 19 years and these games were organised for the Italian-American community.
“There are 20 million Italians in America supporting us, we want to repay their affection, give them entertainment and make them proud. We hope there are many Italians cheering us on in these friendlies.”
Tennis champion Jannik Sinner visited the training ground in Miami yesterday and took pictures with the Azzurri players.
“I’ve known him for a while, he’s a friend and we speak often. He sets an example for all of Italian sport, we are proud of what he is bringing to Italy and wish him the best for the future. We hope to adopt some of his mentality and desire to win.”
🎙️ Le parole di @donnarumma alla vigilia di #VenezuelaItalia 🇻🇪🇮🇹#Nazionale #Azzurri #VivoAzzurro pic.twitter.com/1042u4sHhB
— Nazionale Italiana ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (@Azzurri) March 20, 2024