Juventus midfielder Manuel Locatelli is ‘sad’ that he wasn’t called up by Italy for games against England and Malta but is confident he will soon return to the team.
The Bianconeri midfielder spoke to Juventus’ Twitch channel on Monday, the same day of Italy’s first training session at Coverciano during the March international break.
Asked about his feelings for not being part of the team, he replied: “It made me sad, but I can prove on the pitch I deserve to return.”
Locatelli was part of the Azzurri squad that won the Euros less than two years ago.
“I will remember it forever,” he admitted.
“There was COVID a year earlier so people enjoyed celebrations even more. It went beyond any expectation. If it was played a year earlier, I wouldn’t have joined. Luck is needed in life and one must always be ready.”
Locatelli went on to comment on Juventus’ 1-0 win over Inter on Sunday.
“When we play at night, there is always adrenaline and when you win at San Siro, it’s all better,” he said.
“We played well, and we could have killed off the game, but the commitment was exemplary.
“I think it was one of my best performances, I immediately found the right position and I’ve been playing many games from the start. Consistency helps.”
Locatelli’s first son was born on March 10 in Turin.
“I’ve felt a lot of love these days, there is another kid in the Bianconeri family,” said the midfielder.
“I hope he will be willing to see what his father has done. I hope he wants to watch Juventus games. It will be difficult to tell him all my emotions and but hopefully, there will be more games like yesterday.”
How is he helping Nicolò Fagioli and Fabio Miretti settle in?
“I’ve spoken to them because managing some things at a club like Juventus is difficult. They are on the right path with a club and a coach protecting them. I told them to keep the same enthusiasm and they’ll learn how to manage many things. Experience is crucial, but they are already taking giant steps.”
Who are his Juventus idols?
“Del Piero is an icon for this club, but also Nedved and Buffon. Then Pirlo for my role and also Pessotto. I’ve got to know him and he’s teaching me many things. And don’t forget about Chiellini and Bonucci.”