Former Roma manager Paulo Fonseca was interviewed by Record and took this opportunity to praise two of his former players, Bryan Cristante and Leonardo Spinazzola, after their win with Italy at Wembley Stadium.
The Portuguese technician, who re-invented Bryan Cristante as a center-back for the most part of last season, said this of the 26-year-old Italian international:
“Cristante embodies professionalism. He’s an example of professionalism, honesty and proved to be an important player for the national team. He wasn’t a starter, but in crucial moments the coach believed and relied on him because he knew that he is a team player and a hard worker.”
He then went on to praise left wing-back Leonardo Spinazzola, who after a timid first year at Roma turned out to be one of the club’s most important players finishing with 2 goals and 7 assists in 37 club appearances across all competitions.
“Spina had a career-best season. His season at Roma was excellent and fully deserved a starting spot at the Euros. Until his injury, he was Italy’s best player. It was a shame he did not play at Wembley, because after all he’d done, he deserved to play in the final.”
