"Italians don't deserve to be here." Chiellini returned the trophy before the Euro 2024 final

Captain of the Italian national team, which triumphed in the last Euro, Giorgio Chiellini solemnly carried the trophy before the Euro 2024 final between Spain and England, after which he kissed it for the last time.

As the captain of the previous cupholders, it was his duty to return the trophy so that it could be awarded to the new European champions.

Chiellini lifted this trophy at Wembley Stadium in July 2021, as the Euro 2020 tournament was postponed for a year due to the global pandemic. As a result, Italy could enjoy the status of reigning champions for only three years instead of the traditional four.

Setting the trophy on the pedestal of the Olympic Stadium in Berlin, Chiellini kissed the European champion's cup for the last time as a farewell gesture.

In an interview with Sky Sport Italia before the match, a now retired defender admitted that this time Italy did not put in enough effort to retain the title.

"It's a bit sad to give the trophy back, as I dreamed of bringing it back to Italy. Unfortunately, these teams deserve it more than we do."