Alphadjo Cisse has been included in Italy’s squad for the first time ahead of Nations League fixtures against France on Thursday and Belgium on Sunday.
News of the call-up
Cisse said: “I was on my way to do the pre-match interviews ahead of Ferencvaros in the Europa League and they stopped me and said: ‘Alpha, they’ve called you up to the national team … the senior national team!’. I had the game to play, so it only sunk in later.”
From Catanzaro to Milan
Cisse was playing in Serie B with Catanzaro last season. He is Milan’s leading goalscorer across all competitions in 2026-27, with eight goals from 15 appearances so far.
A chance to prove himself
Cisse said in a recent interview with Cronache di Spogliatoio: “I want to prove that I should be there. They’d been talking to me about it for about 10 days, but it was still up in the air. This is my big chance. I haven’t had the chance to stop and reflect on my journey here, but football moves quickly!”
Young players and Pisilli
Cisse said: “Italy is full of strong, young players, let me tell you. It just depends on the opportunities you’re given. A lot have come through over the last few months, myself included, and I’m sure that there will be lots more in the near future.”
On playing with Pisilli, Cisse said: “Once you get to a certain level, it becomes amazing. I was impressed by Pisilli more than anyone: He’s so strong. I knew about him before, but playing with him made me understand his strength.”
