Bonucci: Vialli's words were decisive at EURO 2020

Leonardo Bonucci, now part of Roberto Mancini's Italy staff, recalled the significant impact Gianluca Vialli had on the players. Bonucci stated, "His words really got inside you."

The Italian squad achieved victory at EURO 2020 with Bonucci in defence, Mancini as coach, and Vialli serving as delegation chief. His crucial role in their triumph is acknowledged by everyone involved, including following his passing in January 2023.

Bonucci spoke at an awards ceremony in Rimini named in Vialli's honor. "It's always emotional and touching to share moments with Gianluca. I hold unforgettable memories; he set a great example for all of us fortunate enough to spend time with him," Bonucci shared.

He emphasized Vialli's pivotal contribution to their success at the Euros, particularly after the team's failure to qualify for the World Cup. Bonucci noted that it was the morning after the play-off loss to North Macedonia that he truly understood Vialli's strength of character.

Vialli was known for his impactful speeches to the team. Bonucci clarified that these addresses weren't delivered in the locker room before matches but rather when the squad had time to absorb his message. "It was the day before matches, when we were all seated at the dinner table. He didn’t need to raise his voice; his words really got inside you," Bonucci explained.

He added, "He left you with this hunger to go out there and fight to bring home something that became historic."

Vialli battled cancer for an extended period before his death at 58 in January 2023. Bonucci concluded by highlighting Vialli's dedication: "Despite everything he was going through, you'd see him training on the athletics track at Coverciano in the morning, because he wanted to be in good shape. It was a message to all of us, and it meant so much."