Leonardo Bonucci believes that the Italian national team has a bright future, which sees the team in a good position for the upcoming Confederations Cup.
The Juventus man featured in last night’s 2-2 draw with,World Cup 2014 hosts, Brazil.
He was full of praise for the teams performance and potential.
“It was a great Italy – we created so many scoring opportunities,” he told reporters in a post-match interview.
“We’ve been doing some great work for the last two and a half years, we have a style of play and an identity.”
The Inter youth-graduate then answered questions on the number of club team-mates that feature for the Azzurri.
“The Juventus block? There is a good base on which to build something important.”
He reserved special praise for Emanuele Giaccherini; a man who seems to be a constant in Prandelli’s plans, despite the fact that he remains a bit-part player for club team Juventus.
“Look how well Emanuele Giaccherini played – he’s someone you can always rely on”
The defender was also quick to compliment the Milan duo Mario Balotelli, who scored Italy’s equaliser; and Mattia De Sciglio, who made his début for the national team last night.
“Balotelli has important qualities and I congratulated him for his display. When he wants to make the difference then he does.
“De Sciglio is a great talent – he played a great game,”
The game was a warm-up for Italy’s World Cup qualifier at Malta next Tuesday.
Italy are currently top of group B, and victory on Tuesday could extend their lead to 7 points if Bulgaria falter tonight, against the same opposition.
Bonucci made his full international début, in a friendly, against Cameroon in 2010; last nights draw was his 25th appearance for the Azzurri.
