Italy left-back Leonardo Spinazzola has been ruled out of Euro 2020 after tests on Saturday confirmed he had suffered a torn Achilles tendon.
The 28-year-old has been one of the standout performers for Italy and was impressive again in the 2-1 quarterfinal win over Belgium as he was named star of the match -- for the third time in four matches at the tournament -- despite being forced off on 80 minutes with the injury.
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Spinazzola was sprinting down the left wing alongside Belgium's Thorgan Hazard when he pulled up and immediately signalled to the bench that a change was required.
He undertook an examination at Sant'Andrea University Hospital in Rome where it was confirmed he had suffered a torn tendon in his left Achilles.
"Unfortunately, we know how it's gone, but our Azzurro dream continues and this is a great opportunity to show that nothing is impossible," Spinazzola wrote on Instagram on Saturday. "I can only tell you that I will be back soon! I am certain!"
Despite leading Italy to a first major tournament semifinal since 2012, manager Roberto Mancini said after the match he was "sad" following Spinazzola's injury.
Gli #Azzurri abbracciano #Spinazzola
Torna presto Leo!