Italy vs France: Scalvini and Fagioli Speak on Azzurri’s Growth and World Cup Dreams

Scalvini and the Squad Embrace a Proactive Mentality

Giorgio Scalvini pointed to a recent defensive intervention during Italy’s match against Turkey in Bursa as a turning point for team belief. The tackle, which prevented a goal by Vincenzo Montella’s side, sparked an emotional celebration involving Gianluigi Donnarumma, Alessandro Bastoni, and Sandro Tonali. Reflecting on those moments, Scalvini noted that the collective response solidified the group’s confidence in their ability to dictate terms on the pitch.

“The hugs after that intervention with Gigio, Bastoni, and Tonali were beautiful and charged me up a lot,” Scalvini said during his press conference. “That moment united us and gave us the awareness that we are a strong team that can dominate matches and play good football.”

Preparing for a High-Stakes Test Against France in Paris

Looking ahead to Friday’s fixture at the Stade de France in Paris, Scalvini acknowledged the magnitude of facing one of the world’s elite national teams. While recognizing the strength of the French squad, the central defender insisted that the Azzurri intend to play openly rather than retreat into a purely defensive shell.

“France is an extremely strong team, among the best in the world,” Scalvini stated. “We will study the opponent to understand what to do, but we are positive. We are Italy, we will do our best, and we will go there to play our game openly. Comparing ourselves against such a strong team is important to understand where we stand.”

The defender also reflected on the tactical demands placed upon the squad, explaining that the national team setup encourages dominance while balancing defensive consolidation when holding a lead. He praised the guidance of the coaching staff and noted how his experience adapting to different defensive systems at the club level has helped his international development.

Fagioli Focuses on Maturity and World Cup Ambitions

Nicolò Fagioli addressed his personal and professional growth following a challenging period that included a suspension for betting violations. Interviewed by Alessandro Antinelli for Rai, the Fiorentina midfielder discussed the lessons learned and the release of his book, Fragile, which chronicles his experiences.

“Compared to the boy described in my book, I have matured a lot, especially on a human level, because certain things make you grow,” Fagioli said. “I am much more sure of myself, more cheeky in certain things, and tougher in others. I remain a very sensitive person, and I will carry this forward until I die because I think it is a positive thing.”

Fagioli made clear that his ultimate sporting ambition remains centered on representing Italy on the global stage. “I want to go to the World Cups with Italy. This is my biggest dream,” he added, while emphasizing the importance of securing results and rebuilding team confidence following an opening loss to Belgium in the UEFA Nations League.

Club Continuity and Recovery Milestones

Beyond international duties, Scalvini touched upon his recent contract extension with Atalanta, which runs through 2031, despite interest in moves abroad from some of his peers. Having recovered from a significant injury layoff, the defender expressed contentment with remaining in Bergamo while maintaining perspective on the paths chosen by other young talents.

Scalvini also offered an update on teammate Gianluca Scamacca, noting that the striker has recovered from his physical setbacks and returned to training with renewed determination and fitness. Both players look to translate their club resilience into consistent contributions for the national team as preparations for the Parisian fixture continue.