Cambiaghi: First Italy call-up a ‘starting point’, I look up to Chiesa

“To be here is a great source of pride; it’s a dream come true, but also a starting point because it’s the first call-up. I’ll try to enjoy it as much as I can,” Cambiaghi said at a press conference on Wednesday as quoted by TMW.

Cambiaghi suffered a knee injury at the very beginning of the 2024-25 season, but made his return in the second part of the last campaign.

“Last season was affected by an important injury, but I’ve returned well since February-March. I focused on the recovery, and I’ve felt the support of the team,” he said.

“Everything went well afterwards, there were no complications, and I returned well. I made the pre-season, I’ve got playing time, but I’d say that I felt in good shape also when I made my return last season.”

Bologna boss Vincenzo Italiano has played a key role in the development of Cambiaghi at the Dall’Ara.

“I owe a lot to the coach. He strongly wanted me, and he was patient to wait for me,” said the winger.

“I’ve managed to put into practice my abilities thanks to his nice and innovative ideas. The coach relies a lot on wingers.”

Cambiaghi looks up to Chiesa

Cambiaghi is taking inspiration from some of the best players in his position over the last few years, including Euro 2020 Italy winners Lorenzo Insigne and Chiesa.

“I always analyse those playing in my same position when I watch games. Surely Insigne and Chiesa are those I look up to the most,” he said.

“I really like them, but there are many others I study and take inspiration from.”

Italy coach Gattuso has named three other debutants for October games against Estonia and Israel, giving Hans Nicolussi Caviglia, who joined Cambiaghi for today’s press conferences , and Roberto Piccoli their first senior call-ups.