Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini is keen to help the Azzurri’s youngsters develop after being included in the squad for matches against Poland and Portugal.
Roberto Mancini’s side begin their UEFA Nations League journey against Poland in Bologna on Friday, as they look to move on from a disappointing summer that saw them watch the World Cup from home.
With several fresh faces in the side, Chiellini knows that he will play a key role in helping the youngsters develop – a task he is looking forward to given there was a time he didn’t think he would ever play for Italy again.
“There are a lot of great youngsters, and I can help a lot of them with my experience and comfort with playing at a certain level,” he told reporters. “I’ve seen a lot of enthusiasm and talent over these last few days. We must all grow and we must do that as soon as possible.
“I wasn’t even sure I would return to the Azzurri, for a thousand reasons. Most of all, because of my age.
“However the atmosphere I found on Monday morning pushed me along and made me forget those thoughts.”
Chiellini will be the captain for Friday’s match against Poland, and while the Juventus man is proud of the honour, he knows he isn’t the only one cut out for the role.
“I will have the captain’s armband and it will be an honour,” he added. “It’s like that for now, but there are players like Daniele De Rossi who aren’t with us.
“He could prove to be important for the future. And then Gigione [Buffon] is still around…”
Chiellin has made 96 appearances for Italy since making his debut back in 2004.
Source: forzaitalianfootball.com