Bonucci describes Chiellini and Van Dijk as world’s best ahead of Italy-Netherland clash

 

Bonucci describes Chiellini and Van Dijk as world’s best ahead of Italy-Netherland clash

Italy defender Leonardo Bonucci has said that Netherland captain, Virgil van Dijk and his Italian counterpart, Giorgio Chiellini, are two of the five best defenders in the world.

The Juventus defender is speaking ahead of the Nations League clash between the Azurris and the Dutch team, which takes place on Monday in Amsterdam.

Italy had to come from behind to play a 1-1 draw against Bosnia-Herzegovina at Artemio Franchi in the Nations League opener, while Holland opened their account with a 1-0 win over Poland.

While stating that the Italian national team is not a selection but a genuine team, Bonucci noted that there had not been an international break for ten months due to the COVID-19 pandemic, adding that it made things difficult. So, according to him, it was natural that teams struggle a bit after many players came out of three months of the lockdown.

He also said that the team players were in contact with each other during the pandemic, reminding them that they have a strong squad who wants to remain united as done during the Euro 2020 qualifiers.

Speaking at a press conference, Bonucci stated that the Azurris discovered their enthusiasm after failing to qualify for the 2018 world cup. The team is now made up of young players and experienced lads.

While lauding the coach for the effort that saw Italy recording 11 consecutive victories, Bonucci said starting their Nations League campaign with a draw makes things complicated.

Italy looked rusty in Friday evening’s match. Bonucci stated that the team started that way last year and still came very close to reaching the final.

Speaking on Chiellini and van Dijk’s relevance, he said the world would be seeing two of the world’s best defenders face each other.

He said Van Dijk proved himself in the Premier League and the national team, adding that he deserves the Ballon d’Or, while Chiellini has been the best for 15 years.

 

 

Written by: Oladipupo Mojeed