The Opening Match Of Euro 2020 Italy Vs Turkey, Chiellini Is Still Carried Away By The Emotion Of Being Absent From The 2018 World Cup

Giorgio Chiellini. (Photo: Twitter @chiellini)

JAKARTA - Captain Giorgio Chiellini has warned that the Italian team is very excited about Euro 2020 and wants to prove their comeback after missing the 2018 World Cup.

"We have a desire to rebuild, to revive this tournament (Euro 2020) as a very big team," said the 36-year-old Juventus defender.

As is known, Italy failed to qualify for the 2018 World Cup after losing in the play-offs to Sweden. In addition, Italy has so far only won the European Cup trophy once, namely in 1968.

"The defeat in Milan against Sweden is still etched in our memories, and we can never forget it. But we managed to turn that disappointment into enthusiasm and the desire to play even better," said Chiellini.

Chiellini is the most experienced Italian national team player with 107 caps over 17 years.

He participated in defending Italy in the Euro 2012 final against Spain, which ended in the Azzurri's defeat. But until now, Chiellini has never won a trophy with the Italian national team.

"We can't wait to show our performance and relive those emotions," added the veteran defender.

Meanwhile, coach Roberto Mancini hopes that the Azzurri's appearance at Euro 2020, which was postponed for a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, can be entertainment for everyone.

"After everything that happened, I think it's important to entertain people," said Mancini.

Italy will open the Euro 2020 tournament with a Group A match against Turkey at the Stadio Olimpico, Rome, in the presence of 16,000 fans, on Friday (Saturday early morning WIB). Only 25 percent of the total spectator capacity is allowed in the stadium.

"Of course it would be better if this match was watched by more people in the stadium, but we are also considering the current situation," said Mancini.

"If the Olimpico is full, they will be the 12th player on the pitch. But in any case, we are happy to play at Roma, and those 16,000 men are already a great start for us," he added.

Furthermore, Mancini's side are determined to extend their 27-match unbeaten streak.

"I believe that three years ago, even today, we have forged a great team spirit," said Mancini.

"The first game is always the most difficult, but we have to play loose, carefree, mentally and do our job well, to be different. This is our goal."

"We are working well. We have good players, and we have created a great team."

"Our desire to go through this European Championship as a big team is very strong."

"We want to keep playing, have fun and maybe get to London (Wembley Stadium, venue for the Euro 2020 final)."