Riccardi focused on enjoying Italy experience

Riccardi, 18, has enjoyed something of a breakthrough season so far – becoming an integral member of Alberto De Rossi’s Primavera side while also making his senior debut for the Giallorossi and signing a new long-term contract with the club.

This week he is one of 35 young Italian players called up by national team boss Roberto Mancini for a special training camp at Coverciano, alongside Roma teammate Nicolo Zaniolo.

It is the youngster’s first experience with the senior national team setup.

“It’s a great feeling to be here,” Riccardi told reporters.

“I was at Trigoria when I was told about the squad and I was very happy. It’s a dream to be here with the senior national team, an incredible experience.”

He added: “Being here is already a dream. Me and Nicolo are both here and that might help a bit, it’s true, and right now I’m enjoying everything about it.”

Riccardi made his debut in January, in the Coppa Italia against Virtus Entella, under former coach Eusebio Di Francesco – while he is yet to make a first-team appearance since, he has been named in every matchday squad bar one by new boss Claudio Ranieri.

“I’ve always felt Ranieri believes in me,” Riccardi said.

“Everyone at Roma has always made themselves available to help me, I couldn’t pick out one person. I would thank Di Francesco too, as he always showed faith in me. But right now I’m focused on this experience here.”