Former Norwich City defender Ben Godfrey is brushing shoulders with the very best in football after completing a move to Europa League champions Atalanta.
The 26-year-old will reunite with former manager Carlo Ancelotti when he faces the Italian's Real Madrid side next month, having played under him for Everton during the 2020-21 season.
Ancelotti's pull was part of the former English youth international's decision to leave Norwich for Goodison Park, and he played a part in his Toffees exit as well.
"Carlo Ancelotti was one of the first I contacted once I heard about Atalanta’s interest and he immediately advised me to go there," he said. "I spent a short time with him, he’s a great coach and a great person.
“Atalanta is a fantastic club and it was right to come. Gian Piero Gasperini's style manages to develop and grow many players.
“I immediately felt welcomed and liked by all my team-mates. Serie A is a very strong league where all the teams are tactically prepared, and the Champions League is the dream of most footballers.”
Godfrey won't only be facing Ancelotti when they meet in the European Super Cup on August 14, but the host of world-class players he leads. One of those is poster boy Kylian Mbappe, who was unveiled at the Bernabeu earlier this week.
The former York prospect is looking forward to the challenge, however, and says it'll help him reach the level he's aiming for.
Ben Godfrey made 78 appearances during his time at Norwich City. (Image: Paul Chesterton/Focus Images Ltd)
“We’ll see each other again on August 14 in Warsaw for the European Super Cup," he continued, speaking to Tuttosport. "Marking Kylian Mbappé would be a great challenge but if you’re to improve, you have to face the best.
“Improving myself is my goal. I tend to be a right-hand man in a three-man defence, but I have full faith in the decisions and choices of the coach. I’m taking Italian lessons and I'm adapting to the rhythms of the preparation."
Godfrey joined the Canaries for £100,000 in 2016, going on to make 78 appearances for the club and play a key role in their Championship-winning success of 2019.
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