Despite impressing critics with some brilliant displays of tactical superiority, Italy ended their Euro 2016 campaign with some rather abhorrent penalty taking during their quarter final defeat to Germany.
Whilst Simone Zaza was mercilessly mocked on social media for his twinkle toe’d run up and miss, Graziano Pelle didn’t exactly show himself in a great light when instructing Manuel Neuer that he was planning to dink the ball down the middle by way of a cocky hand gesture – his corresponding miss beautiful for many watching Germans.
Following his glorious moment, the Southampton striker has taken the time to apologise to the entire Italian nation for his attitude and his ensuing penalty gaffe.
Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport, Pelle issued an “apology to all Italy” for his crimes.
He commented;
The “scoop” gesture? I did not mean to insult anyone. I didn’t want to seem like a blowhard, I just wanted to subdue him (Neuer).
When we looked into his eyes, Neuer didn’t even notice the adrenaline we had.
I’m sorry for those people who love me and for all Italians, I apologise.
The next day was sadder still. If I’d have scored they would tell me that I was a phenomenon and instead it went wrong.
My one positive of Euro 2016? When it began I was a nobody (in the Italy team) and now I leave feeling like I’ve arrived.
Whilst the incident will long live in the memory for the striker, Pelle did offer a rather decent outlet for the Italians throughout the tournament. Performing quite superbly in an often isolated role.
Still, probably not a good idea to mug off the worlds greatest keeper.