Darboe marvels at unforgettable night

Four days after making his debut for the club, the 19-year-old midfielder came on for Chris Smalling after just 30 minutes at the Stadio Olimpico – going on to play an influential defensive role as the Giallorossi edged to a 3-2 win.

Darboe travelled to Italy from his homeland Gambia as a solo refugee a number of years ago, with his appearance in a European semi-final adding to an already incredible story.

“I think everyone knows a little bit about my story,” Darboe said.

“I’ve had a pretty unusual time. It’s true that I had to go through a long journey, that was a bit tough, in order to get here. I but since I have been here [in Italy] my life has changed.”

He added: “I was nervous when I was coming on. Four or five years ago I was in Africa, watching players on the TV – and today I was out there playing against some of them. So, I was very excited about that.

“I don’t think I’ve done anything yet, I think I still have a long way to go. I try to train as best as I can and do everything I can to help the team.”

Darboe revealed what Paulo Fonseca and his teammate had said to him as he prepared to come on.

“They told me, ‘Look, Ebri, stay calm, do what you can, you are a great player so don’t try and force things,’” Darboe said. “I did what the coach told me. My teammates really helped me, I tried to help them, so I’m pleased.

“We won, yes, but as we all know we didn’t qualify unfortunately – so we are all disappointed about that. But I am pleased for myself – and pleased for my teammate Nicola Zalewski as well, because he came on and scored as well.”

The midfielder then made sure to thank all those who had got him to this point.

“I want to thank the coaches, both Paulo Fonseca and [Primavera boss] Alberto De Rossi, and indeed all those who have coached me since I’ve been here,” he said.

“I’ve learned so many things I didn’t know before from them, so if I am where I am now it is because of the coach and the staff. I want to thank all of them.”