Inter target Giacomo Raspadori has spoken about his experiences with the Italian national team, and downplayed transfer rumours linked to him in the summer.
Speaking in an official Italian national team press conference, as reported by Italian news outlet FCInter1908, the Sassuolo striker shared his feelings on his impressive rise at club and international level.
The 21-year-old preferred not to give any comment on the links between himself and major clubs in Italy and Europe, though he was aware that he is a highly-regarded talent.
Raspadori has been linked with the Nerazzurri in a possible move for this summer, either as a replacement for Lautaro Martinez should the Argentine depart, or as a backup and understudy to the 23-year-old.
In addition to earning transfer interest at club level with his performances for Sassuolo, the young attacker also earned a call-up to EURO 2020 with the Azzurri.
About his current career situation, Raspadori had this to say:
“Surely my progress can be seen as a fairy tale. In a few months many things have happened, and I believe that my strength is to have balance.”
“I will remain the same guy that I was before, and this is the most important thing through all that happens to me. I will put the right weight on everything and be aware that this is a starting point.”
Asked about what his hobbies are among the national team squad he said:
“I study, but I also like games. In the morning I study and in the afternoon I play playstation.”
About his memories of the national team he said:
“I was little, but I remember the evenings with family and friends. 2006 was a magical moment like the one I am experiencing now.”
“What I remember is the desire to do something great together. I hope that this is a starting point to achieve what would be a dream.”
Of former Inter and current Azzurri boss Roberto Mancini he said this:
“I immediately felt part of the group because he treats us all the same way. Until a few months ago my teammates were idols for me, and now I’m here and I play with them. They really welcomed me.”
On his role in the team:
“[Departed Sassuolo manager Roberto] De Zerbi has enhanced my qualities, and here I play a similar role as with him. In the national team you play a lot with the ball at your feet, and there are many reference points. I think I’m here to give the team another solution in possession.”
He specified: “Locatelli and Berardi are two points of reference, I see them at Sassuolo and I see them here too. They are two examples.”
On market rumours linking him with a summer move he had this to say:
“These are things I don’t think are important. I live life to the fullest. I try to do my best, we will see what happens next, I’m happy doing what I’m doing.”