Azzurri goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma says the team are staying close to Sandro Tonali and Nicolo Zaniolo following their withdrawal from the team. The pair are the subject of an investigation from the Turin Public Prosecutors office into an alleged illegal betting ring. Speaking to Sky Sport Italia about the last 24 hours, Donnarumma explained why as captain, he is staying close to both the players to offer them support:
As captain, how did you experience these last hours?
“It was difficult hours. We are close to them, humanly and sportingly we are so sorry to lose two strong guys who could help us. We will always be close to him as the coach says.”
As a friend, did you get to talk to them?
“No, I didn’t get a way. They’re gone. We are so sorry, I am personally close to Sandro and Nick.”
Today on the field you were smiling: do you need to find serenity?
“What happened doesn’t touch us, we think about the pitch because we are professionals. We had a great week. The hand of the coach and the staff is seen. We are super focused for tomorrow and Tuesday against England.”
In Bari you made your debut in the national team…
“It’s a piece of my story there, I feel great emotions related to Bari. It’s great effect to come back. We can’t wait to play for the audience who will give us a great hand.”
