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Prior to this summer’s European Championship in France, Spanish newspaper Marca has interviewed 24 players from the 24 participating nations.
From Italy they chose Roma forward Stephan El Shaarawy – who was asked for his thoughts on the competition and his recent times with the Giallorossi.
The forward revealed that he is looking forward to his first major international tournament - and goes into the group stages full of confidence after starting his Roma career in fine fashion.
"I am excited because it is my first prestigious international tournament," El Shaarawy said. "I missed the World Cup in Brazil due to injury and now, touch wood, I am in good form, both mentally and physically.
"I am full of confidence, because of how well things went at Roma."
Are you concerned about if there might be another terrorist attack during the Euros?
"I think the best thing is not to think about it too much – after all, life has to go on. I think it is important to keep normality and for the people who go to the games to enjoy it and not be worrying about other things."
Your time in Monaco was very disappointing?
"It was not a very positive experience. I like Monaco, I like the life there. The quality of life is very good, and they have a young team. But the club took the decision to send me to Roma. And that has also been a great opportunity for me."
What do you think about the group you are in?
"It is a difficult group. To start we play against one of the favourites, Belgium, a very strong side. We faced them in November, losing 3-1, and their potential was clear in that game."
And then Sweden. What do you think of them?
"Sweden are a strong team and they have a great striker in Ibrahimovic, a world-class player."
And then finally, the Republic of Ireland. Do you know any of the players in their team?
"The truth is no, but you have to be a good team to reach the finals. Ireland do not have the most famous players in the Euros, but we know they are a team that will fight until the end. Leicester City did not have any well-known players, but they managed to win the Premier League."
Who are your favourites for the Euros?
"Germany are a very strong side, as are Belgium and France, the host nation. Also I like England, they are improving. And don’t ignore Italy, we are a very serious team."
Is Italy a team built in the image of Antonio Conte?
"Yes. When he was at Siena, in Serie B, it was obvious that he was a different kind of coach. He works hard with his players and has a very formidable character, as you also saw in his three years at Juventus. He is a very demanding coach."
How do you think he will do at Chelsea?
"Good … very good."
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