Bellanova sets sights on Italy squad at Euro 2024

Raoul Bellanova impressed on his Italy debut in the 2-0 victory over Ecuador and admits he will do everything with Torino to earn a place in the Euro 2024 squad.

The Torino wing-back is perhaps best suited to the experimental 3-4-2-1 formation, which is fairly similar to the approach taken by Ivan Juric at Torino.

He was launched in the starting XI in New Jersey and made a big impression with several attacking runs down the right, although he made way for Giovanni Di Lorenzo at half-time.

“I am happy with my debut, with the performance and above all with the victory,” Bellanova told RAI Sport.

“It was a great game, both attacking and defending, so we deserved the win.”

This result completes the American tour after a 2-1 friendly win over Venezuela on Thursday evening.

“When you wear the Nazionale jersey, you are representing an entire country. There is no such thing as a friendly at this level. We must always try to do our best.

“Before we left for this tour, we were told that we would be representing circa 20 million Italian-Americans. We played for us and for them, giving our all.”

If the 3-4-2-1 tactic is retained, then Bellanova could break into the squad for the Euro 2024 tournament in Germany this summer, although he can also play as a right-back with a four-man defence.

“The Euros are a dream for everyone, then it depends on my performances for Torino and the decisions of the coach. I try to give my all to deserve my place in the squad.”

His substitution at half-time was a surprise, considering how well he was playing, but it was caused by a fitness issue.

“I felt a slight twinge in the pubic area, nothing major, but with the doctor we decided it was best not to take any risks.”