Alessandro Romano says he chose to represent Italy at senior level “with all my heart” after switching allegiance from Switzerland, and believes the Azzurri can develop into a “very strong team going forward”.
The Cagliari midfielder returned to Italy’s starting lineup for the 3-1 win over Turkiye, having previously begun the 2-0 home defeat by Belgium.
Italy responded to that opening Nations League loss with a 4-1 victory away to Turkiye before earning an impressive 1-1 draw against France. Romano said the contrasting performances reflected the time needed for a new group of players and a new coach to establish themselves.
“I don’t think we got the first game so badly wrong, obviously it wasn’t the result we wanted, but with so many new players, new coach, it was inevitable we’d need time to get to know each other,” Romano told Sky Sport Italia.
“The important thing is that we reacted well after that.”
Romano had been among the Italy players to receive the strongest criticism following the Belgium defeat, although it was his first appearance for the national team. He said the support of those around him helped him deal with the pressure and improve his performance against Turkiye.
“I am fortunate to have a strong and supportive staff and teammates who helped me. The coach stood by my side over these days, told me to relax, and I think I managed it today,” he said.
The midfielder’s decision to represent Italy also attracted attention because he had previously played for Switzerland Under-21s before changing his international allegiance for the senior side.
“I wanted to play for Italy with all my heart. It certainly wasn’t an easy decision, and it certainly wasn’t one against Switzerland, but in favour of Italy,” Romano said.
“I think this can be a very strong team going forward.”
Romano was one of two Cagliari players named in the starting XI against Turkiye, alongside Daniel Maldini. He began the match as the playmaker before moving across to take up a mezz’ala role.
