Vicario: ‘Indescribable to represent Italy where dream started’ | OneFootball

Guglielmo Vicario recognises that representing Italy where his ‘childhood dream started is just indescribable,’ as the Tottenham goalkeeper will play against Israel in Udine.

It kicks off at the Bluenergy Stadium in Udine on Monday at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT).

Despite the 2-2 draw with Belgium, achieved after going down to 10 men for the Lorenzo Pellegrini red card, the Azzurri remain top of their Nations League group and are now just one point clear of France.

This is a particularly special game for the Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper, who is from Udine and grew up in the stands watching his team.

“I come from this city, it is emotional for me to see friends and family in the stadium, it means a lot,” said Vicario in his press conference.

“Coming here wearing the Azzurri shirt where my childhood dream started is just indescribable. I am slowly starting to realise just what tomorrow evening will be for me and all those who know me here.

“I am proud of the journey my career has taken me on and being here representing Italy just reminds me of all the steps along the way.”

Vicario learning and growing at Tottenham

That journey took him all the way to London, where he is considered one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League.

“It is a different experience for me, as I also had to learn another culture and style of football. It is all valuable experience that makes me a better athlete.

“Participating in a European competition for the first time is teaching me a lot too, as there is a higher tempo and more intensity. I am experiencing things I hadn’t before and that is all valuable.”

When these sides met last month, the Nazionale emerged with a 2-1 victory played on neutral turf in Hungary.

Vicario takes the gloves from Gianluigi Donnarumma and it will be only his third senior cap for Italy.

The others were friendly games in March 2024 against Ecuador and Turkey, so this will be his competitive debut.