Orsolini: Italy have ‘moral duty’ to qualify for World Cup | OneFootball

Bologna winger Riccardo Orsolini feels Italy have a ‘moral duty’ to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, but warns: ‘When you are chasing, it’s never easy.’

Orsolini spoke to Vivo Azzurro after Gennaro Gattuso’s opening games as the Azzurri coach against Estonia and Israel.

Orsolini: Italy players have ‘important task’

EMPOLI, ITALY – APRIL 1: Riccardo Orsolini of Bologna FC 1909 celebrates after scoring a goal during the Coppa Italia Semi Final match between Empoli FC and FC Bologna at Stadio Carlo Castellani on April 1, 2025 in Empoli, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

“A new cycle has begun, and we are very motivated and full of energy. We know we have an important task because there’s a World Cup to qualify for,” Orsolini said via TMW.

“We’re in a chasing position, and when you’re chasing, it’s never easy, but we’ll give everything we’ve got.

“In recent years, I’ve had a lot of satisfaction wearing the Bologna shirt. Now, I dream of having another important season, scoring more goals and earning a call-up to the World Cup. It would be a dream, but it’s also a concrete goal because I have everything it takes to play for this chance.

Orsolini ‘proud’ to play for Italy

BOLOGNA, ITALY – APRIL 20: Riccardo Orsolini of Bologna celebrates victory after defeating FC Internazionale 1-0 in the Serie A match between Bologna and FC Internazionale at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara on April 20, 2025 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

“I’m proud to wear these colours and represent my country; it is a source of pride. I have dreamed of playing for Italy since I was a child,” continued the Bologna winger.

“It’s a moral duty towards the people to take Italy where it deserves to be. The coach has given us a lot of helpful advice, and he’s very present and involved in training sessions, bringing his grit. He’s an added value, after all, who better than him knows what it takes to play and win in a World Cup? I think we’re on the right path; we just need to keep working and be ready.”