FIGC president Gabriele Gravina is delighted with the progress of Roberto Mancini's Italy squad.
The Azzurri are now in the Euros round of 16.
“We have always said, from the very first moment, that we needed to bring the national team closer to the Italians, and today the Italians are getting closer to this national team," Gravina told Sky Sport Italia.
“They are popular in a good way. Even yesterday these guys, independently, felt the need to go out and see the fans.
“To see these lads walking through Villa Borghese with two wings of fans to encourage them is another good advert for our country."
Gravina also said: "We are a unique team, extraordinary in terms of enhancing feelings.
"We have invested a lot of energy and time in this aspect.
“The national team can awaken the pride and involve the whole of this country while remaining a big family."
