Giacomo Raspadori reveals he is studying for university tests while on international duty with Italy at Euro 2020.
Despite being still uncapped, the 21-year-old had been included in the squad and made his senior debut with the Azzurri on Sunday against Wales.
“So many things have happened during the last four months. My strength is to keep balance and remain the guy that I used to be. That’s the most important thing. I am aware that this must be a starting point,” the Sassuolo starlet said at a press conference.
“Mancini told me that I am here because I deserve so. He gave me the trust and self-esteem to face this adventure. It’s been really helpful.
“I’ve always felt part of the group, Mancini is treating us all the same way. Some of my teammates were my idols growing up and I’ve always felt part of this group.
“I felt ready, at the right place. It was so nice [to receive a call-up], you enjoy the moment when you are aware of what you are doing.”
Italy usually train in the afternoon at Coverciano and Raspadori reveals he studies for his university tests in the morning.
“I study almost every morning alone in my room. I study Motor Sciences and now I am preparing for the anatomy test in September,” he said.
Before the test, Raspadori hopes to achieve something meaningful with the Azzurri, who will face Austria in the last 16 stage at Wembley on Saturday.
“We are happy because we have qualified, playing good football. Austria are an organized team and we must be ready and focused on ourselves, then we’ll see.
“It would be thrilling even to just step inside the pitch. A few months ago, I’d have never thought to reach this stage. I am proud and I want to enjoy this moment, I want to have fun and hope everything will go in the best way.”
Raspadori has joined his teammates Manuel Locatelli and Domenico Berardi in the national team.
“They are two points of reference for me, both at Sassuolo and here.
“De Zerbi enhanced my qualities and the playing style is similar here. There’s a lot of movement and not many references up front. I’m here because of my characteristics and because I can offer something different.”
Raspadori has been linked with a move to Inter and Milan, but he doesn’t seem to care about transfer gossip.
“I don’t consider transfers something important. I want to enjoy this moment, I try to help the team and then we’ll see what happens in the future. I am happy with what I am doing.”