Leeds United attacker Willy Gnonto is grateful to Italy coach Roberto Mancini for his support.
Mancini has been keen to keep the teenager involved since failing to qualify for last year's World Cup.
He joked with Il Corriere della Sera: "Does he still scare me? The truth? I feel the same.
"I remember when I was little at Inter and he coached the first team: he was an idol and I never expected to be in the national team with him.
"He gave a strong signal, both with me and with other young players. Let's hope many others follow him."