Italy U23 Call-Up and the Spain Tournament
May 2019 — The Call
The phone call came unexpectedly one evening. Enzo was in Milanello, cooling down after training, when his agent's voice broke through with news that made his heart leap.
"Enzo, congratulations. The Italy U23 coach has just confirmed your call-up for the upcoming summer tournament in Spain."
The tournament would pit Italy against some of Europe's finest young talents — Spain, Germany, and Croatia — a perfect stage to showcase his growth beyond the club scene.
June 2019 — Preparation
Back in Milan, the city was buzzing with anticipation as Serie A wound down.
Enzo's summer was no vacation. Instead, it was filled with intense training camps, tactical briefings, and bonding sessions with his new teammates. The Italy U23 squad was a melting pot of rising stars — all hungry, all determined.
Coach Alberto Gatti was clear: "You're not just representing yourself or Milan — you're carrying the hopes of a nation. Play with intelligence, heart, and creativity."
June 15, 2019 — Arrival in Spain
The team landed in Barcelona under the warm June sun.
The stadiums were smaller than San Siro but packed with passionate fans. The atmosphere was fierce, the stakes high.
Enzo felt the familiar nervous excitement — but now, it was mixed with pride.
June 17, 2019 — Italy vs Spain
The opener against Spain was a baptism of fire.
From the bench, Enzo watched the game unfold. Spain's quick passing and relentless pressure tested Italy's resolve.
In the 60th minute, the coach signaled. Enzo took a deep breath and jogged onto the pitch.
The crowd was a blend of cheers and jeers.
Every touch was scrutinized.
But Enzo was ready.
His first touch was a silky drag-back, evading a Spanish midfielder. He then surged forward, threading a pass to striker Lorenzo Pellegrini that almost led to a goal.
The game ended 1-1 — a hard-fought draw that showed Italy could stand toe-to-toe with the best.
June 20, 2019 — Italy vs Germany
Germany's side was physical, disciplined.
Enzo started on the wing this time.
The match was intense. The German press left little space, forcing quick decisions.
Midway through the first half, Enzo found a pocket of space and unleashed a low cross that led to Italy's opening goal.
His off-the-ball runs caused headaches for the German defense, and his ambidexterity allowed him to switch flanks effortlessly.
Italy edged out a 2-1 victory, and Enzo's performance earned praise from coaches and commentators alike.
June 23, 2019 — Italy vs Croatia (Tournament Decider)
The final group match against Croatia was winner-takes-all.
The stadium vibrated with tension.
Enzo played the full 90 minutes, showcasing his dribbling, spatial awareness, and creative passing.
In the 78th minute, with the score level at 0-0, Enzo made a dazzling run down the right wing, cutting inside defenders, before delivering a pinpoint no-look pass to striker Andrea Belotti, who scored.
Italy held on to win 1-0, clinching the tournament.
June 25, 2019 — Tournament Awards Ceremony
The Italian squad celebrated under floodlights.
Enzo was named in the "Team of the Tournament" for his dynamic performances and maturity beyond his years.
The coach's praise echoed in his mind: "This is just the beginning, Enzo. Keep rising."
Reflection
The summer tournament was more than a competition; it was a declaration.
Enzo Sky Vito was not just an AC Milan prodigy. He was Italy's future.
The journey from a nervous seventeen-year-old making his debut to a confident young star lighting up international football was complete — for now.