Ciro Immobile was bitterly disappointed with Italy’s Nations League semi-final loss to Spain, but was happy to represent his national team once again.
The 33-year-old Lazio captain made his first appearance for the Azzurri in over a year, having last featured in the disastrous World Cup qualification play-off loss to North Macedonia in March 2022.
Whilst it wasn’t a positive evening for Italy, who fell 2-1 to Spain after an 88th minute Joselu winner, Immobile could take pride in putting himself back on the scoresheet once again, scoring his first international goal since the win over Switzerland in the Euro 2020 group stages.
Speaking first to Sky Sports Italia (via La Lazio Siamo Noi), Immobile first reacted to Italy’s loss to Spain.
The result leaves a bitter taste in our mouths, we didn’t play a good game, but in terms of chances I thought the draw was fair until the end, they never shot more than us on goal.
The 33-year-old then commented on his return to the national team.
I’ve had many opportunities, the coach has always respected me as a person and a player so I help out as much as I can, as long as the national team needs it, I’m always available, even in the generational change, I’ve always said how much I care about this shirt.
He paid respect to former Italy striker and coach Gianluca Vialli.
I miss Gianluca a lot, he’s someone I used to talk to. Joining him tonight a sign of destiny.
Immobile also discussed Italy’s loss to Spain in an interview with Rai Sport.
It was a bitter result because we fought until the end, we were unlucky to concede this goal, the ball bounced off their striker on the line, it happens, football is like that, it burns us a lot, we were playing well, it happens.
They always had the ball. They tire you out, they make you nervous, they didn’t create many chances, in terms of play they were a bit ahead of us, but it was right to draw. I’m very sad, it gnaws at me and it’s difficult to give a clear verdict.
