Euro 2024: Italy newcomer Folorunsho makes tournament debut at age of 26

Late bloomer Michael Folorunsho hadn't even played in Italy's top division this time last year. Now he's representing Italy at the European Championship.

The 26-year-old Folorunsho made his tournament debut Saturday as a stoppage-time substitute in Italy's opening 2-1 win over Albania.

It's a dream turned reality for the player who only made his Serie A debut last August.

I think it was inconceivable 12 months ago, Folorunsho said Wednesday. I don't think I could have ever imagined that a year on, I'd be playing at the European Championship.

Folorunsho, an attack-minded midfielder, scored five goals for Hella Verona last season after joining the team on loan from Napoli. He played more league games, 34, than any other outfield player on the team.

Physically strong, combative and versatile, Folorunsho has a powerful strike and is good in the air, too.

I never stopped dreaming. But that now drives me forward because once you get to a certain level, that's when the going gets really