Football News: Calafiori Shines in Italy’s Euro 2024 Debut
In a captivating start to their Euro 2024 campaign, Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori received widespread praise for his impressive performance in Italy’s 2-1 victory over Albania on Saturday. The 22-year-old, who plays for Serie A side Bologna, made his major tournament debut for Gli Azzurri, starting at center-back.
Calafiori’s composed display caught the eye of many, including former Italy internationals Alessandro Del Piero and Fabio Capello. Del Piero, a World Cup winner in 2006, remarked that Calafiori “was never scared, it looked like he played 70 games for Italy.” Former England manager Capello echoed these sentiments, stating, “I didn’t think someone making his debut could show this much personality. No fear.”
“I didn’t think someone making his debut could show this much personality. No fear.” – Fabio Capello
The young defender’s call-up to the national team squad came on the back of a strong domestic season, in which he scored two goals and provided five assists across 37 appearances for Bologna. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with reports suggesting that a Chelsea scout attended the Albania game to monitor Calafiori’s progress.
While the Blues’ new head coach, Enzo Maresca, is said to be interested in the defender, Calafiori is reportedly keen on a move to Juventus. An agreement in principle is reportedly in place for a contract until 2029, with Bologna seeking a €40 million transfer fee. Interestingly, Calafiori’s former club, FC Basel, will receive 50% of the sale fee.
With Italy’s next Euro 2024 match against Spain on Thursday, live on talkSPORT, Calafiori could very well cement his place in the starting lineup. The Azzurri’s title defense continues with their final Group B fixture against Croatia on June 24, and the young defender’s performances could be crucial in their quest for another European Championship triumph.
talkSPORT will bring fans live commentary of every game at Euro 2024, so be sure to tune in via the website or the app for all the latest news, views, and reactions to the tournament’s biggest moments.
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