Riccardo Orsolini has two goals in just two senior Italy caps, so is dreaming he can ‘squeeze my way into the squad’ for Euro 2020.
He converted a late penalty, which he also earned, in the 4-0 friendly win over Estonia after a Vincenzo Grifo brace and Federico Bernardeschi strike.
Riccardo Orsolini has two goals in just two senior Italy caps, so is dreaming he can ‘squeeze my way into the squad’ for Euro 2020.
He converted a late penalty, which he also earned, in the 4-0 friendly win over Estonia after a Vincenzo Grifo brace and Federico Bernardeschi strike.
“I am always happy to be here with the Nazionale. I wanted to take the first penalty too, but Grifo told me to swing by later on!” he told RAI Sport.
Can Orsolini make a late push to earn a spot in the Italy squad for Euro 2020 next summer?
“I know full well it’s not easy, it’s a dream for me just being here. I really hope to make life difficult for the coach so that I can squeeze my way into the squad.
“I also know my performances for Bologna are what can earn me this opportunity and I work hard every day.”
Bologna coach Sinisa Mihajlovic is often furious with Orsolini, as he expects more from the 23-year-old.
“To be honest, I get angry with myself more than he gets angry with me. Errors are part of the job, I need to be more clinical in front of goal, but I am working on it and hope to put in stronger performances.
“Italian football has taken on a completely different mentality in recent years, with more focus on young players and youth academies. It’s easier to make it into the first team now and that’s positive for Italian football.”