Bonucci: Vialli's words were key to EURO 2020 triumph
Leonardo Bonucci, now part of Roberto Mancini's Italy staff, recalls Gianluca Vialli's significant influence on the players. "His words truly resonated with us," Bonucci stated.
The Italian national team achieved EURO 2020 victory with Bonucci in defense, Mancini as coach, and Vialli serving as delegation chief.
Everyone involved in that campaign recognizes Vialli's contribution to the win. His passing occurred in January 2023.
Bonucci paid tribute to Vialli at an awards ceremony named in his honor in Rimini. "It's always emotional to share moments with Gianluca," Bonucci said. "I cherish unforgettable memories; he set a powerful example for everyone fortunate enough to know him."
"During the Euros, he was a crucial figure in our success. Remember, this was a squad that had failed to qualify for the World Cup. Speaking with him the morning after our playoff loss to North Macedonia truly showed me what a great man he was."
Vialli was known for his addresses to the team, but Bonucci explained these happened not just before matches, but when the squad had time to absorb his message.
"It was the day before games, during dinner. He didn't need to shout; his words had a deep impact.
"He instilled a desire to compete and achieve something historic."
Vialli battled cancer for an extended period before his death at 58 in January 2023.
"Despite his illness, you'd see him training on the track at Coverciano each morning, committed to staying in shape. It was a message to all of us and meant a great deal," Bonucci concluded.
Fresh materials — Football News
Zielinski: Inter Dream of Champions League Glory, Names Scudetto Challengers
Piotr Zielinski has named the main Scudetto contenders and acknowledged Inter's "dream of winning the Champions League," particularly after their strong performance against Real Madrid. Zielinski attended the Premio Gentleman awards in Milan. He spoke to reporters after returning from internation
"He shows the irrational side of Argentina": Omar Da Fonseca pays tribute to Messi after his last match with Argentina
Omar Da Fonseca spoke about Lionel Messi's final match for Argentina on RMC's 'Rothen s'enflamme'. The commentator, who covered many of Messi's games, paid tribute to an unparalleled 'anti-athlete'. Lionel Messi's departure leaves a significant void for Argentinians. His 208th and
"I am the best coach in Portugal, you will hear about me": Jorge Jesus, the explosive personality, as told by a former French player
Jorge Jesus, a figure who evokes strong reactions – a perceived traitor by some, a model of discipline by others – is the man who dared to confront Cristiano Ronaldo. Ronaldo claims the new Portuguese national team coach betrayed his word. This unusual standoff doesn't surprise Damien Tixier. A
"Fighting for This Title": Filipe Luis Reveals Monaco's Conference League Ambitions
AS Monaco, currently the surprise leader of Ligue 1 after five matches, aims to make a significant impact in the Europa Conference League this season. Speaking on RMC's "After Foot" program on Wednesday, head coach Filipe Luis openly discussed the team's aspirations in the competition.
"On vit un fantasme": les Bleus de France 98 savourent les débuts de Zidane comme sélectionneur
Several former players from France's 1998 World Cup-winning squad expressed their delight following Zinédine Zidane's successful debut as the French national team coach. The players gathered in Metz for Robert Pirès' testimonial match. Zidane has completed his first four matc
Argentina: Endless Queues in Buenos Aires for Messi's Farewell Match
Thousands of Argentinians showed up hours before the match at the Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires. They came to see Lionel Messi's last game in the Albiceleste jersey. The match against Benin was scheduled for Wednesday at 1 AM French time. Key Details: