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Roberto Mancini conjured with the idea of stretching his team's 37-match unbeaten run beyond next year's World Cup and Giorgio Chiellini marvelled at the energising properties of Euro 2020 glory.
But Italy's post-Wembley glow and their attempt to add the UEFA Nations League to their European title was clouded by an ugly outbreak of racist abuse from Fiorentina fans aimed at Napoli's Kalidou Koulibaly, Victor Osimhen and Andre-Frank Anguissa on Sunday.
'It's unacceptable,' said Chiellini. 'I was ashamed as an Italian, as a Tuscan. It is shameful because in Europe people talk about Italy as a racist country and I don't think it necessarily is.
Giorgio Chiellini says he was 'ashamed as an Italian' after more racist abuse in his country
'Everyone needs to do more. It is terrible publicity for Italy abroad. We all need to make an effort but we need laws which are applied and enforced. That's the most important thing.'
Chiellini, the elder statesman of Italian football, has started the season in strong form for club and country, rejuvenated by the thrill of success at Euro 2020 when Mancini's team beat England on penalties in the final.
'The memories are fresh and we still have the emotions in our minds and hearts,' said the 37-year-old Italy and Juventus captain. 'I did get a real boost and a lift in terms of energy over the last few months.
Napoli's Victor Osimhen (L), Kalidou Koulibaly (R) and Andre Frank Anguissa (not pictured) were racially abused by Fiorentina fans over the weekend
