Riyadh, day 3 - Anticipation

The first thing that strikes you is the roads. Straight, extremely straight. And filled with cars, attempting to go full speed despite the total, intricately woven traffic. There's a strong desire to move fast in Riyadh. It's not hard to understand why: the bold architecture, armies of cranes punctuating the empty spaces, and gigantic hotels. Everything aims to impress.   While cars take the spotlight, it's the individuals who possess them, each with their unique essence, that infuse a distinctive charm. Venturing beyond the bustling streets unveils a more intimate side, infused with the fragrance of incense, gradually dissipating. Racing at high speed leads you to the desert: depart the city, and behold its vastness, patiently awaiting your presence. A gradual pace reveals the beauty of this land.   Those who run, those who wait. There's a stadium to prepare. It's changing its appearance: last week it was a Spanish theater, now it has become an Italian one. Training is the moment of the day to unleash all energies, amplified by a sunset carrying a cool, almost cold breeze, opening the doors to a night, the last one, that separates us from the moment we hear the starting whistle.   Running fast on the perfect grass. Thousands of kilometers away from home, with the awareness of an feeling about to arrive, for a mounting anticipation, for a desire to set the ball rolling. We are here for this. To await Inter.