Buongiorno feels positive pressure ahead of Spain clash

Torino defender Alessandro Buongiorno hopes to break into Italy’s starting lineup at EURO 2024 and feels it’s a ‘positive pressure’ ahead of their second group game in the tournament against Spain.

The defending champions got the job done against Albania after coming from behind to win their opening game 2-1.

The center-back, who made his Italy debut a year ago, is a product of the Granata youth academy and is tipped to be their new captain. It would be possible for the club to continue to rebuff offers from Napoli, Juventus, Inter, and Tottenham Hotspur.

Having earned a place in the Azzurri squad for the 2024 European Championship under coach Luciano Spalletti, a year on from his debut under Roberto Mancini in the Nations League, the defender said every time feels unique because they are representing millions of Italians and feel the responsibility to do well.

Speaking with UEFA.com, Buongiorno lauded former defenders Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini, who have both retired, for their advice during their training camp in America.

“We had the chance to talk to them, and they gave us important advice. Nowadays, defenders have to know how to start moves from the back, which we work on a lot in training,” he added.

Speaking on the EURO 2024 ambitions of Italy, Buongiorno pointed out that it was a bit of a blow to concede after just 30 seconds against Albania, but they recovered immediately and reacted well.

“That reaction proves who we are. We kept the ball well after that, had good intensity and pressing.”

They will face  Spain next. Spain defeated Croatia 3-0 in their group’s opening match.

He noted that it would be a tough game, and they had to keep possession against Spain’s press.

“Then, when they have the ball, try to block the wingers. The most important thing is that we keep trying to play our game,” continued Buongiorno.

He further said the reigning European Champions that have failed to qualify for the 2022 World Cup are feeling positive pressure. 

“A positive sense of responsibility that pushes us to go beyond our limits both during the matches and in training, everything it takes.”