De Rossi excited for some big European nights

The Giallorossi will come up against Chelsea, Atletico Madrid and Azerbaijani side Qarabag in the group stage of the competition, guaranteeing a stern test for Eusebio Di Francesco's squad.

“On the one hand, there is a certain disappointment that we could not have had an easier group – but on the other we are excited about playing some big European sides," Di Rossi said. "We have great motivation, there will be some memorable evenings for the fans.

“It will be a difficult group, but an exciting one. We have time to be prepared.”

The Giallorossi captain was full of praise for the other sides in Group C.

“[Antonio] Conte is one of the strongest coaches in the world, and Antonio Rudiger too is among the best in the world in his role," Di Rossi said of Chelsea. "I have great affection for both those guys, it will be good to see them – but I hope they go away disappointed. That won’t be easy but we will try.

“Atletico is another team I would have liked to avoid. It will be tough challenge. Atletico also have a great coach who has been a leading name in world football in recent years, and achieved outstanding results against tough rivals.”

He concluded: “Qarabag are an unknown quantity, but if they are in this competition it is because they have the right quality.”