Alessandro Longoni has had his U17 European Championship campaign ended early and in an unfortunate way, it has been confirmed.
As Radio Rossonera report, the tournament which is currently underway in Cyprus is showcasing several players from Milan’s youth teams, namely Longoni, Sala, Liberali and Camarda.
Unfortunately, Longoni – who was one of the best players on the field in the quarter-final win against England – has had his tournament ended prematurely due to a blow suffered against the Three Lions.
Milan’s press release states: “Following a challenge during the Italy-England Under 17 national team match, valid for the quarter-finals of the European Championship, the Rossoneri goalkeeper Alessandro Longoni suffered a ‘concussion’ for which the UEFA protocol was activated.
“The boy underwent diagnostic tests which gave negative results, but he will necessarily have to observe 7 days of rest (starting from the day of the trauma) which is why he will not be available for the national team both in the semi-final against Denmark and in the eventual final.”
In the quarter-final stage they met a heavily fancied England side, and Liberali scored a stunning solo goal to level the scores. He weaved and wound his way past several defenders before finishing with confidence, drawing Phil Foden and Lionel Messi comparisons.
In the penalty shootout that followed after extra-time, Liberali and Camarda each scored their spot kicks while Longoni saved decisively as Italy went through.
If he can play until the end of penalty shootout, why did he need to rest? If it’s really a concussion just as the media claimed, he should be taken off just after the incident.
But there’s also case like Karius and Cech though… so the most important thing in the end is to be healthy and with no side effect. Football can wait.