Italy boss Roberto Mancini declared "I was due this" after his side overcame England on penalties to clinch Euro 2020 glory.
Mancini, 56, enjoyed trophy-laden spells with Sampdoria and Lazio while a player but failed to win a major trophy for his country.
He won 36 caps for Italy and featured at Euro 1988 and the World Cup on home soil in 1990, while he also finished as runner-up in the Under-21 Euros in 1986.
Mancini was able to rectify his lack of an international trophy on Sunday night as he led Italy to a penalty-shootout victory over England in the European Championship final.
Speaking after the match, he said: "I was very fortunate to play in a great side in 1990 and a terrific under-21 team.
"Despite the fact we were the best team, we didn't win it and lost both times on penalties."
Mancini's emotions spilled over after his side's triumph at Wembley and he tearfully paid tribute to fans back home after Italy made it 34 games unbeaten.
"It was the emotion which happens after achieving something incredible. It was the emotion of seeing the guys celebrate and the fans in the stands," he said.
"Seeing everything we have managed to create, all of the hard work we have put in over the last three years, but specifically the last 50 days which have been very hard.
"It's the fact we have been able to forge this team spirit over the last 50 days, they have really created something which can never be separated going forward. They will always be synonymous with this triumph."
Despite England drawing first blood through Luke Shaw's second-minute volley at the back post, Italy recovered well and ended the match having had two-thirds of possession.
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Leonardo Bonucci equalised after a scramble in the box in the second half and the Azzurri went on to win 3-2 in the subsequent penalty shootout.
"They did well," said Mancini of his players. "We conceded the goal straight away and struggled, but then dominated from there on in.
"The lads are marvellous, I don't know what more to say. It's important for all the people and all the fans.
"We are happy that we played well when winning the game. I hope the supporters are celebrating right now."
Meanwhile, captain Giorgio Chiellini suggested he was not surprised by Italy's victory as there has been "something magical" in Mancini's camp since May.
"A few tears fell. We all deserved it, at this age we realise even more what it means to win such a trophy," said the 36-year-old.
"We have been saying that something magical is in the air since the end of May, day after day."
