EXCLUSIVE: Gladbach's Chiarodia on representing Italy and fighting against relegation

Modest and keeping a low presence, evident even in his social media activity, Fabio Chiarodia no longer follows many pre game habits, apart from lacing up his left boot ahead of the right. For him, each game carries equal weight, and he readies himself with consistent attention, while still enjoying pasta as a staple in his diet.

Speaking fluent Italian, a sign of his upbringing immersed in the language at home, the defender reflects on his latest experiences with the under 21 squad and recent developments at his club.

You were born and brought up in Germany within an Italian household. How did you end up joining the Italian youth setup straight away?

"At age 14, while in the Werder Bremen youth ranks, an Italian scout active in Germany approached my parents about representing the under 15 Italy team. I agreed right away, as playing for Italy was always my aspiration."

What connects you to Italy?

"We visited every summer for family breaks, but my father instilled in me the love for the Azzurri. He hails from Veneto and often uses dialect, whereas conversations with my mother lean more towards standard Italian; she comes from Friuli."

Do you support any Italian clubs?

"My father also shared his enthusiasm for Juventus along with the national side."

In those Italy versus Germany fixtures you watched on television, which side did you root for?

"I have supported, and continue to support, Italy every time."

Between Giorgio Chiellini and Mats Hummels, whose style influences you more?

"Chiellini without doubt! (chuckles) I even met him once, and he was impressive. We share being left footed, though my playing manner might resemble Bonucci more, given my preference for starting plays from the back. Still, Chiellini spent countless years at Juventus and with the national team, marking him as an elite figure from whom I draw much inspiration."

Could you envision tracing his path to Juventus as well?

"(Chuckles) That is yet to unfold, considering career choices must prioritise personal growth. It is too soon to contemplate such moves."

This marks your third Bundesliga campaign. Last season, you netted your debut professional strike much like Chiellini, heading in from a corner...

"Correct, and it came after only five minutes, I believe. It put us 1 0 up, the crucial type. The feeling was unforgettable, especially with my entire family watching from the stands. Pure elation."

As a backline player, do you favour interceptions or robust challenges?

"Interceptions likely benefit the squad by allowing quick transitions, yet a solid tackle delivers a real rush. It feels nearly like scoring."

On Saturday, your Borussia Monchengladbach face a key home fixture against Wolfsburg amid the drop zone struggle...

"With four matches left, our aim is victory in each, no matter the opponent. That said, this encounter holds particular significance: it feels like our initial mini decider."

Have you analysed the opposition already?

"I review them routinely, irrespective of their calibre. They boast key talents, including Christian Eriksen, whose skill shone brightly at Inter."

This season brought a muscular issue that sidelined you for nearly four months. How did you cope?

"It turned into a valuable lesson. I focused intensively on solo work, alongside a fitness specialist and a mindset advisor. Oddly, it proved beneficial, as I gained substantial knowledge. Being my initial setback, it introduced me to existence away from the pitch. Ultimately, it built my resilience, and through gym sessions, I added five or six kilos of muscle mass."

At Gladbach, assistant manager Oliver Neuville, a 2002 World Cup runner up, aids the setup. What is he like?

"We share a strong bond, chatting in Italian. Raised in Switzerland, he is fluent in it plus several other tongues. Though his expertise lies with attackers, we connect well."

How do you ready yourself for a vital clash such as the Wolfsburg home game?

"In truth, much like any other regarding groundwork. It will prove pivotal for our objectives, akin to a showdown. Facing Eriksen adds extra drive to perform strongly."

To date, who posed the greatest marking challenge?

"Harry Kane stands out, blending top technique with immense physicality. He is rather unique among strikers. Personally, I scout upcoming forwards pre match. But facing him is a highlight."

What is the vibe in the under 21 group?

"We gel superbly as a unit, diverse in backgrounds. Banter flows freely, particularly with Filippo Mane from Dortmund. I tease him about turning overly German in his habits (chuckles)."

Besides him, Dortmund also fields Samuele Inacio and Luca Reggiani. Do you link up occasionally?

"Not often, despite the short distance of 100 km. My free time involves hanging out with mates, nothing elaborate. Yet next week, I will oppose them, which should be enjoyable."

Baldini steps in for the senior side in June on a temporary basis. Whispers suggest several under 21 players might get chances...

"Nothing confirmed on that front yet. Naturally, featuring for the first team exceeds a mere dream. Every Italian youth yearns to don that shirt. It would be an immense privilege."

Those would be friendlies though, leaving room for a potential Germany call up still...

"My heart lies with Italy. That has always been my vision."

The under 21s appear as a solid, united, and varied collective...

"Spot on. We converse in Italian too, even those who just two years back found it tough, not having matured in Italy. Results reflect our progress."

Does Baldini act as a paternal guide for the squad?

"His vast know how extends to nurturing not just athletes but the individuals too. For instance, during my injury, he reached out repeatedly to check on me."

Is it accurate that mobiles are off limits around him?

"Yes indeed. During group moments, say meals, they are banned. Frankly, it enhances unity and fosters better connections."

You maintain a subtle online footprint; your Instagram features sparse updates.

"Social platforms do not interest me greatly, especially post poor performances when backlash arrives."

Has Francesco Camarda, your peer, faced excessive spotlight?

"I have avoided such scrutiny, likely due to my defensive role. He remains young and has logged numerous Serie A outings already. He is heading correctly and will enhance his worth over time."

How did you react to Italys World Cup exit?

"During under 21 camp, disappointment hit us all hard. Skipping a third consecutive tournament stung deeply. Now, focus shifts to the Euros."

Your under 21 Euros in 2027 looms not too distantly...

"Qualification awaits first (chuckles). No superstitions here, but we need to secure it on paper."