TONIN'S BREAKTHROUGH YEAR

It doesn’t matter if the game didn’t take place, that special first call-up to the senior side will always remain in Riccardo Tonin’s heart. On the coach heading towards Turin, he sat alongside fellow Primavera teammates and friends Matteo Soncin and Marco Brescianini, both of whom have had more of a taste of what it’s like to spend time with the seniors. Despite the trip abruptly coming to an end due to the postponement of the second-leg semi-final clash in the Coppa Italia, the trio will have undoubtedly shared their excitement together.

It’s a dream that Riccardo had harboured since arriving at AC Milan and becoming part of the U15 side. On 3 March 2020, this dream became reality: “The first thing I did when I heard the news was call my father, who was even more emotional than me. I’d like to dedicate this call-up to my family for all the sacrifices they make for me every day,” were Tonin’s words after finding out.

This has been a breakthrough year for Tonin, who has developed and become more of a complete player. Not only does he have an eye for goal, the striker from Arzignano has also been decisive in the build-up having provided five assists and won eight penalties (two of which he’s dispatched himself). He’s a willing runner, always ready to work hard for the cause. He combines dedication and sacrifice with excellent technical and physical qualities. From Venezia, Parma and Spezia through to Pordenone, Cittadella and Brescia, many teams have suffered at the hands of Riccardo.

With eight goals to his name, only Capanni and Pecorino (both nine) have scored more than Tonin this season, with his celebratory trademark salute – a tribute to his family and their deep-rooted Alpine traditions – having become a familiar sight. He has undoubtedly been one of the key figures of the team's promotion-winning season.

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