Spalletti tells ‘complete’ Retegui where he needs to improve

Luciano Spalletti has given a word of advice to his Italy national team starting centre-forward Mateo Retegui, as the CT feels the Atalanta striker is at the top of his game within the penalty area but feels that there is still room for improvement elsewhere.

Retegui is the standalone top goalscorer in Serie A this season with 12 goals (and three assists) from 15 league appearances this term. He is also averaging a goal every three games with the Azzurri, with a tally of six from 18 since his debut in 2023.

Where Spalletti feels Retegui needs to improve

Even though the Argentine-born Italy striker has gone from strength to strength this year, Spalletti still feels that he needs to work on his game in the build-up.

“He has become a complete player in the penalty area,” Spalletti said of the 25-year-old.

“He has to improve when he moves around the pitch,” the CT said when asked if there is any further room for growth.

Speaking at an event in Italy, Spalletti also spoke about the improvement of the national team since EURO 2024, the decisions he has had to make as a coach since then, and the chances of a return for Lazio forward Mattia Zaccagni.

“The choices that were made have been correct and will remain the same,” Spalletti told ANSA.

“I am very convinced by the players I’ve assembled in the last camps. What they have shown us is great.”

And, on Zaccagni, he added: “He was an important component for us during the Euros, alsp for what he showed in training,” Spalletti said of the 29-year-old.

“Now he has a better chance because I see him playing inside more, and it’s fundamental for our system that we have players who play in the same roles for their clubs.”