Two days ahead of the upcoming match against Wales, one which will decide who finishes first in Group A and which side of the draw the Azzurri will be in for the knockout stages of UEFA Euro 2020, Federico Chiesa spoke to the press at the Media Centre at Coverciano.

He started off by commenting on the sad passing of a legend in Giampiero Boniperti, who left us at the age of 93 last night: “We’ve lost an icon of Italian and world football.” The Federation has submitted a request to UEFA, asking if the team can wear black armbands for Sunday afternoon’s match against Wales.

The Welsh were a surprise package at the last European Championship, reaching the semi-finals in France: “They’re a strong and tenacious team and will certainly give us a battle,” said the Azzurri attacker. He continued: “They have some excellent players, first and foremost Bale. Ramsey? He’s also by no means an ordinary player, he’s a very intelligent footballer. I’ve enjoyed watching him in training and during matches in the past year.”

Federico Chiesa has just finished his first season with Juventus, one which saw him score eight goals in 30 league appearances and also net four times in the Champions League: “There’s fantastic energy within this Italy group, and the atmosphere is also brilliant. Credit to the Coach, who has succeeded in generating enthusiasm. As Mancini said, the squad consists of 26 starters. If I’m called upon, I’ll be ready. Everyone is important as we look to achieve our objective: we’re here to go all the way and want to keep daring to dream.”

Given that Italy have already qualified for the last 16, Chiesa is also thinking beyond the Wales showdown: “Fear of facing the stronger sides? We shouldn’t be afraid. On the contrary, I can’t wait for us to be able to face them and see what level we’re at.”

Itinerary (all times CEST) 

Saturday 19 June
11:00 – Transfer Florence-Rome
**17:15 – Press conference, Coach + 1 player at Hotel Parco dei Principi
*18:30 – Training at the Olympic Center Giulio Onesti (behind closed doors except for first 15 mins)

Sunday 20 June
18:00 – Italy vs. Wales at the Stadio Olimpico. Press conference/media duties after full-time. 

N.B. Timetables are subject to possible change
* photos will be taken and shared by FIGC 
**media access will be limited to reduced numbers