Italy play hosts Poland in the U20 World Cup today and Milan goalkeeper Alessandro Plizzari explains how he became a shot-stopper.
The Azzurrini won their group with victories over Mexico and Ecuador, while they drew 0-0 with Japan.
Their Round of 16 tie with Poland kicks off in Gydnia at 16.30 UK time (15.30 GMT).
Plizzari will start in goal and the 19-year-old already made a big impression by saving a penalty against Ecuador, but revealed it wasn’t always so easy.
Italy play hosts Poland in the U20 World Cup today and Milan goalkeeper Alessandro Plizzari explains how he became a shot-stopper.
The Azzurrini won their group with victories over Mexico and Ecuador, while they drew 0-0 with Japan.
Their Round of 16 tie with Poland kicks off in Gydnia at 16.30 UK time (15.30 GMT).
Plizzari will start in goal and the 19-year-old already made a big impression by saving a penalty against Ecuador, but revealed it wasn’t always so easy.
“In one of my first training sessions, I really struggled to get the ball, so I returned home in tears. My father suggested it might be better if I went in goal and I loved it straight away, mainly because I’m not fond of running…” he told La Repubblica.
Plizzari was so impressive that he went straight from the Giovanissimi category to the Primavera, skipping an intermediate level of the youth academy.
“I was 15, so I didn’t realise what was happening, but playing with lads three or four years older than me, I had to grow up quickly.”
He already made his senior Milan debut in a friendly against Bournemouth, playing for the final 10 minutes at the age of 16.
“My legs were shaking. It was raining and Vincenzo Montella said to get warmed up. It was only when I looked round that I realised I was the only one left and he had to be talking to me.
“When (then President Silvio) Berlusconi said I was as good as Donnarumma, I was just amazed he knew I existed at all! I have a good friendship with Gigio, as he sets the example. It’s rare to see someone so young face games with such calm and confidence.
“Gigi Buffon is a hero of mine and after a Milan-Juventus match, I asked for his jersey. I thought he’d forgotten, because he is Buffon and I am nobody, but when I got into the tunnel, he was there waiting for me and wanted my shirt in exchange. I was so happy, but didn’t have the guts to speak another word to him.”
Some say Milan could sell Donnarumma to balance the books and promote Plizzari with help from Pepe Reina next season, but he is keeping his feet firmly on the ground.
“I study accounting and want to go to university. You always need a Plan B, in case football doesn’t work out.”