Italian defender Giorgio Ciellini smiles at the lineup ahead of the internationally friendly soccer match between Italy and Argentina, Final Sima, at Wembley Stadium in London on June 1, 2022. (Photo: Adrian Dennis/AFP) (Photo by Adrian Dennis/AFP by Getty Images)
Giorgio Ciellini is the toughest striker he has faced, the best defender in Azuri history, and reveals why Italy hopes to face Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil in the World Cup final.
The legendary defender sat on the Vivo Azzurro channel, representing his career at Juventus and Nazioner, representing his country.
“I consider Juventus to be a kind of second family. I gave the club so much and I have sacrificeed it personally, but it has been rewarded with the extraordinary sport success and the love of millions of fans,” Chierini said.
He was questioned by the strongest opponent he had ever faced and chose who he saw close.
“Zlatan Ibrahimovic was able to play with Juventus as well. The teammate who taught me the most was Cristiano Ronaldo.”
Chiellini was Calcio’s ultimate warrior
Chiellini was called “The Warrior” because of his resolve and grit on the field, especially when the end match was patched and Bloody.
“The idea of being a ‘warrior’ is part of me, but in the early days it felt like I needed to fight the enemy. In the end it was just a waste of energy, so I worked on that aspect of myself.
The defenders were part of the iconic team that won the Euro 2020 trophy, but have admitted their regrets from Italy’s World Cup campaign.
“The World Cup was all bad. In 2010 and 2014, we didn’t surpass our first round. We didn’t even qualify for the next two.
“But I have unforgettable memories of that victory at Wembley. It was extremely satisfying to experience it with my teammates.”
Cielini was part of the iconic “BBC” defense formed by Leonardo Bonucci, Andrea Balzagri and Chielini, but he claims they are not the best trio in Italian history.
“No, looking back at Franco Valleci, Paolo Maldini, Alessandro Nesta and Fabio Cannavaro, I certainly can’t think of myself better than I am, and I have a lot of talent today.
Italy missed the final two editions of the World Cup, and even their participation in 2026 is questionable after a bad start to qualify.
“Our young people must qualify to give this joy to children who don’t even see Italy play in the World Cup. I’m dreaming of a final between Italy and Ancelotti’s Brazil. It’s going to be a historic match.”
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