Ahead of Italy’s meeting with Israel at Bluenergy Stadium on Monday evening, the Tottenham and Italy goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario and Italy coach Luciano Spalletti spoke to the media about their emotional return to Udine. The goalkeeper was born in the city and came up through the Udinese academy, while his whole family still lives in Friuli. Spalletti played an important part in Udinese’s history, leading the team in 2001 and then between 2002 and 2005, earning a place in the Champions League qualifiers at the end of the 2004/05 campaign. Here’s what they had to say:
Vicario: “For me personally, as a person with a special place in my heart for this city, it’s really exciting. I'll have my friends and family at the stadium. I'm proud of the journey I’ve been on and to be back home with the national team. It’s a wonderful feeling.”
Spalletti: “I was very happy here in Udine. It’s a beautiful place and city. I worked with presidents that taught me so many things in my career. Owner [Giampaolo] Pozzo was one of them. I’m pleased to be here to be part of a match at this beautiful stadium.”