"I have lived in Azerbaijan for six years and I love this country. So I look forward to the day I join the team here."
According to Oxu.Az, these words were said by Lorenzo Mezzotero, a footballer from Italy's Sampdoria who has been called up to the Azerbaijan U-21 national team, in an interview with AZERTAC.
The young striker said his main goal is constant improvement: "Currently, I focus on getting better every day. I want to work hard, enjoy the game, contribute to the team's victories, and score goals. Other successes will come step by step."
The player noted that playing for the Azerbaijan national team holds special significance for him: "Wearing this team's jersey is a great honor."
He also emphasized that he has not received any offers from the Italian national team.
Lorenzo Mezzotero is a product of the Neftci Football Academy.
Notably, the U-21 team will hold training camps in Baku from May 28 to 30, and in Isparta, Turkey from May 31 to June 10. As part of the preparation in Turkey, the team will play two friendly matches: against Bahrain on June 6 and against Kyrgyzstan's corresponding age group on June 9. Both matches will be held at the Saw Stadium, starting at 18:00 Baku time.
