Italian media outlet Tutto Mercato Web handed Leeds United man Willy Gnonto a 6/10 for his cameo role as Italy’s U21 side suffered a 2-1 loss to France in their European Championships opener – earning praise for his second half.
Gnonto, 19, is likely to have played his last game for Leeds but right now, his focus will be on helping Italy’s U21 side secure European Championships glory. But it did not get off to a good start on Thursday, losing 2-1 to France.
It came against a France side that decided to drop Illan Meslier, normally first choice for the 21’s. Lille stopper Lucas Chevalier started for Les Blues. Ex-Leeds target Arnaud Kalimuendo opened the scoring for France’s young talents.
Pietro Pellegri equalised on 36 minutes for Italy, before Gnonto was introduced at the break – having represented Italy’s senior side beforehand. Bradley Barcola made it 2-1 just after the hour mark, and the scoreline remained.
Italian site TMW gave a player ratings piece following the full-time whistle, and Gnonto was handed a 6/10 rating for his display. They describe his initial omission as a ‘surprise’, claiming the referee missed a foul on the Leeds star.
“He enters by surprise only in the second half, when Italy suffers the most. He suffers a bad foul on goal, at 2-1, but the referee didn’t respond. In the final he is among the protagonists of Italy which, however, did not secure a draw.”
Italian media hand Leeds man Willy Gnonto a 6/10 for U21 loss to France
It was a bit of a surprise to see Gnonto start the game on the bench and one would imagine, that when Italy’s 21’s take to the field on Sunday against Switzerland, you would expect him to start. Certainly, judging by his showing.
Not as much of a surprise to see Meslier benched. Clearly, Gnonto is going to have a big say in Italy’s campaign and they will be relying on him over the next week or so. When Italy’s campaign does finish, we can expect a transfer.
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