Marco Palestra admitted he was stunned to obtain his first senior call-up from Gennaro Gattuso, describing the chance as a dream come true.
The Cagliari vast participant is likely one of the recent faces within the Italy nationwide workforce squad forward of a vital worldwide break, and arrives with rising confidence after his current performances at membership stage.
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“I wasn’t anticipating the decision from Gattuso. It’s a dream for everybody,” Palestra informed Vivo Azzurro TV, . “In fact I believed in it, and I’m very joyful to be right here.”
Reflecting on his growth, the winger revealed he was not all the time seen as a bodily dominant participant in his youth.
“At Underneath-15 stage I used to be a bit behind bodily in comparison with the others. However my coaches by no means left me out or made me really feel insufficient, and my household all the time supported me.”
CAGLIARI, ITALY – JANUARY 02: Marco Palestra of Cagliari appears on earlier than the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and AC Milan at Stadio Sant’Elia on January 02, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Picture by Enrico Locci/Getty Photographs)
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Palestra: ‘Everybody welcomed me to the Italy set-up very nicely’
Palestra additionally described his first expertise at Coverciano, praising each the atmosphere and the assist he has obtained since becoming a member of the senior setup.
“Everybody welcomed me very nicely and the coach made me really feel comfy right away. meant loads, he helped me an ideal deal and gave me vital recommendation. If I’m right here, it’s additionally because of him and his employees.”
Italy are making ready for a decisive World Cup play-off conflict towards Northern Eire, a match Palestra is already absolutely centered on.
“It’s probably the most vital video games in recent times. Even when it’s my first time right here, I really feel the significance and duty of sporting this shirt. We’re coaching nicely, I see a really centered group, but additionally mentally free, as a result of the psychological facet could make the distinction.”