Gianluigi Donnarumma opened up about his pride at being the Italy captain for the upcoming European Championship and underlined his hunger to ‘bring joy to the whole country’.
The 25-year-old Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper will wear the captain’s armband for the Azzurri at the upcoming tournament in Germany, being given a key responsibility by coach Luciano Spalletti. Ciro Immobile had previously been named captain but was not included in the preliminary squad.
Donnarumma has been much criticised by the fans and press over the last few years but has continued to impress with PSG. During Italy’s successful campaign at Euro 2020, he was one of the players of the tournament and is expected to replicate his strong performances in Germany.
Donnarumma interview
Speaking to Sky Sports Italia, Donnarumma first discussed how it feels to be named Italy captain for Euro 2024.
“The armband gives me a lot of responsibility. I am very proud to wear it, it’s exciting and a privilege. I try to set an example, to be myself. I have had many examples like Chiellini, Bonucci or Buffon, so I also take something from them.
“There are many leaders in this squad, everyone must feel like captains and must be an example for the team. The important thing is to have a unique and united group, an important bond has been created between everyone.”
He spoke about the quality in the Azzurri squad and the trust shown by Spalletti to the players.
“We have quality, as well as a great coach who will certainly make us feel important. We know what results he has brought in previous years, also off the pitch he makes us feel very good.
“I thank him for the trust he gives me every time, listening to a coach with all this experience is very important for me. We will have everything to have a great European Championship.
“He had a great experience at Napoli, he gets so excited every time he talks about it. But now he’s our coach and we hope to really bring joy to the whole country.”
Donnarumma gave his thoughts on Italy’s opponents in Group B – Spain, Croatia and Albania.
“The group is tough, but it’s also tough for the others because they know that they’ll face a strong Italy. We’re thinking in stages, we have to face each match as if it were a final. We need to prepare well, because they’ll all be complicated matches. I think everyone can give something important.”
Finally, Donnarumma discussed his relationship with Gianluigi Buffon, who is the head of the Azzurri delegation.
“I have a splendid relationship with Buffon. It’s important to have him with us because even with just one look he gives a lot. Having Gigi speak and give advice, because of the history he has, is fundamental.”