Nicolò Fagioli admits he ‘didn’t expect’ an Italy recall after two years and his ‘greatest dream’ is to play at the World Cup, now that he has gained in confidence and maturity.

The 25-year-old had not even received a call-up since the 4-1 win over Israel in October 2024, but was thrown into the starting XI for Monday’s 4-1 victory in Turkiye.

That impressive performance could potentially put him in the running to feature against France on Friday, as the Nations League Group A fixtures continue.

“Facing a France side full of champions and with Zinedine Zidane on the touchline will be an indescribable emotion,” Fagioli told RAI Sport.

“It’s a wonderful challenge for all of us, really putting us to the test, because we have to prove what we can do on the pitch.”

This represents a return to international duty for the midfielder, who moved to Fiorentina in January 2025 from Juventus.

“I didn’t expect this call-up, but I really hoped for it. My biggest dream is to go to the World Cup with Italy.”

His career was almost sent off track by an addiction to online gambling, which prompted him to hand himself in and accept an eight-month ban in 2023.