Italy’s Samuele Ricci on his performance against France: “It will remain unforgettable”

Italy and Torino midfielder Samuele Ricci has stated that his performance against France in the UEFA Nations League will always be an unforgettable experience for him.

The midfielder started for Luciano Spalletti’s side against France and starred in the 3-1 win, playing as the deepest midfielder. For his club, he has generally played a versatile role but he thrived in the deep midfield role and that caused excitement amongst many fans..

La Gazzetta dello Sport spoke to Ricci in a detailed interview today and he spoke about the game. 

“It will remain unforgettable together with the debut in the national team or the victory at the Juventus Stadium, the second match with Empoli in Serie A. For a boy like me, playing these matches is a lot, even if I know I still have to grow.”

 He was asked about what his favourite position on the pitch is and Ricci responded by speaking of his versatility.

“There isn’t one that I prefer. I like playing in the double pivot because you have to be ready to do both phases. As a [central] midfielder I feel good because I can go further forward, but I also feel comfortable in front of the defence. There you have to put in intelligence and quality into the build-up.”

He also thanked Luciano Spalletti for referring to him as someone who can be a world class player.

“I thank him. In Torino I play further more forward, but I played as a [central] midfielder at Empoli and I know a little bit how to move. The midfielder’s movement is different, more “intelligent” and to cover the spaces.”

The Torino man also spoke about Sandro Tonali and Davide Frattesi and how they are as midfielder partners.

“They are two high-quality players, with pace and physique… With them everything is easier.”

Italy face Israel in their next Nations League game and Ricci is expected to start in that game as well.

Kaustubh Pandey I GIFN