Gabbia set for debut as Italy face Belgium and Israel

AC Milan defender Matteo Gabbia hopes to make his Azzurri debut ahead of the UEFA Nations League clash between Belgium and Israel.

The AC Milan defender, who admitted that he ‘did not expect’ his first senior Italy call-up for Nations League matches, said: I hope to make my debut, but above all for Italy to win.’

The defender became a mainstay in the Milan team this term, having spent last season on loan in Spain with Villarreal. Since returning to San Siro, he has become an unexpected rock at the center of the Rossoneri defense, scoring the only goal in the Milan derby wins for his team.

Luciano Spalletti noticed his performance as he prepared the team for the big games. They will play against Belgium on Thursday evening and then Israel on Monday.

Gabbia told Vivo Azzurro TV that he didn’t expect the call-up even though he had hoped for it.

While noting that getting his first national team call-up is a unique sensation, Gabbia expressed his excitement as he aims to enjoy this week to the fullest.

He also promised to give his best and try to understand what the coach wanted. 

“Wearing the Azzurri jersey is a reason to be proud and a sense of responsibility; it must be honored in every moment.”

Spalletti also invited some new faces into the squad. They include Michele Di Gregorio, Nicolò Pisilli and Daniel Maldini.

All the newcomers to the Italy squad would go through the ritual of standing on a chair in the dining room and singing a song.

Speaking about the invitation of the 24-year-old, Spalletti praised him for his strength in defence and for keeping a high line. The former AS Roma and Napoli manager also noted that he is one of the only Italian players regularly in the Milan starting XI.

These words were very pleasing to the earing of Gabbia, who said it was a real show of confidence in him.

“I am getting to know Spalletti these days, as I had only met him once when he came to Milan training. He gave me a really good impression.”

Gabbia hopes to debut in one of the two games, but his utmost aim is for Italy to win.