Ricci’s Italy dream and ‘most important game’ of his career | OneFootball

Samuele Ricci dreams of playing and trying to win the World Cup for the Italy national team, and insists the Azzurri are ‘a mature squad.’

Ricci spoke to the FIGC official website about his life on and off the pitch.

The Torino midfielder shared words of love for his parents and especially the example they’ve set for him: “If I’m here today, it’s thanks to the values they instilled in me,” he said.

However, the Torino star could only smile when he revealed: “The only match they didn’t come to because they were on vacation was the one against France. It was probably the most important match in my career.”

Ricci was among the best players on the pitch when the Azzurri beat France 3-1 in the opening Nations League group stage game this past September.

Ricci’s Italy dream and ‘most important game’ of his career

AS Roma’s Enzo Le Fee (R) vies for the ball with FC Torino’s Samuele Ricci during the Italian Serie A soccer match between AS Roma and FC Torino at the Olimpico stadium in Rome, Italy, 31 October 2024. EPA-EFE/ETTORE FERRARI

“Today’s national team is aware of its potential. It’s a mature squad,” Ricci said.

“There are many young players, but many of them play at a high level, and I learn a lot from them.

“My dream is to keep wearing the Azzurri shirt, to play in the World Cup and try to win it. Who knows…I’d also really love to start a family someday.”

Ricci has become a regular starter under Spalletti, but had already received a call-up from his predecessor, Roberto Mancini.

“It was wonderful and unexpected, and Spalletti has continued to call me up. I have built a great relationship with him [Spalletti]. Now, I need to keep going and keep working the way I am.”