Spalletti Welcomes Newcomers and Praises Forwards
Luciano Spalletti opened the preparation for the upcoming Nations League matches versus Belgium and France with the usual presser conference. Italy need a point to be a top seed in the 2026 World Cup draw (via Sky).
“It looks easy, but that’s not how we have to reason. If we think that, matches become hard. Our attitude must be correct and not presumptuous. It’s the first thing we have to combat.”
The Azzurri lost Samuele Ricci due to injury, which will lead to Manuel Locatelli’s return to the squad. The strikers have been going like gangbusters so far.
“Mateo Retegui and Moise Kean have shown what we hoped. We’re happy to see them at the top of the capocannoniere chart. The latter is in splendid condition. He has evident skills and small defects. We’re thrilled. They could feature together, as the Fiorentina man used to play on the wing and could move around a no.9 who stays in the box.”
Spalletti addressed Piero Comuzzo and Nicola Savona, who earned their first call-up.
“The former is very attentive, physical, strong in the back and also capable with his feet. He’s clean and plays the ball. He has personality despite being very young. We like players that display their talent. The Juventus fullback is emerging: he can push forward and is a starter in his team. He can back up Giovanni Di Lorenzo. He has great football and human skills.”
Spalletti sidestepped a question about Roma.
“First of all, I’m sorry, since I’ve been there. I gave them everything, and all are saying the same thing. I’d go in the other direction, but I won’t. I think they have the team to bounce back.”