Gianluigi Donnarumma believes Italy are more than capable of winning Euro 2024 and retaining their crown.
The Italians won the delayed tournament in 2021 at Wembley, beating host nation England on penalties.
It has been an up-and-down few years for the winners since then, but they are dialling in on a strong title defence in Germany this summer.
Donnarumma was the hero during the penalty shootout during the last tournament and will likely be key for Luciano Spalletti’s men again this time around.
As a seasoned winner for club and country, the 25-year-old knows what it takes to perform in the big moments and he has been awarded the honour of being Italy’s captain for the upcoming matches.
He sat down with Sky Sports Italy to talk about his ambitions this summer and how good his side really are.
Ready for EURO 2024! 🤩#EURO2024 pic.twitter.com/Fb7WEdgJff
— UEFA EURO 2024 (@EURO2024) March 26, 2024
Donnarumma said: “The armband gives me a lot of responsibility. I am very proud to wear it, it’s exciting and a privilege.
“I try to set an example, to be myself. I have had many examples like Chiellini, Bonucci or Buffon, so I also take something from them.
“There are many leaders in this squad, everyone must feel like captains and must be an example for the team.
“The important thing is to have a unique and united group, an important bond has been created between everyone.”
Roberto Mancini was in charge for Euro 2020 but they now have a new head coach in Spalletti.
As well as this, there are several new and exciting talents breaking into the squad and they could have their say over the next months.
How far will the defending champions go in EURO 2024? 🤔#EURO2024 pic.twitter.com/H03amBdSbG
— UEFA EURO 2024 (@EURO2024) May 23, 2024
Donnarumma added: “We have quality, as well as a great coach who will certainly make us feel important.
“We know what results he has brought in previous years, also off the pitch he makes us feel very good.
“The group is tough, but it’s also tough for the others because they know that they’ll face a strong Italy.
“We’re thinking in stages, we have to face each match as if it were a final. We need to prepare well, because they’ll all be complicated matches. I think everyone can give something important.”
