The Italian national team coach on the betting case: “There’s a lot of bitterness, the team is close to Tonali and Zaniolo.”
After the explosion of the betting scandal and the investigators’ raid at Coverciano regarding Tonali and Zaniolo, Luciano Spalletti spoke from the Italian national team’s retreat, addressing the issue:
“It was a tough night,” the Italian national team coach explained to Sky Sport. “There is a lot of bitterness about what has happened.” He added, “The entire team is saddened and stands with Zaniolo and Tonali. This support will remain even when the spotlight fades.”
“It’s right to try to help them defend themselves, and then justice will follow its course, if irregularities have been committed, it’s right to pay,” Spalletti continued, referring to the scandal that is shaking Italian football.
“Gravina clarified everything, and Minister Abodi also spoke about the risk of falling into these temptations,” Italy’s coach continued. “We must make an effort to talk to these young players and make them aware of these pitfalls. We need to find a way to warn them about what happens in the world.”
“We must explain; we must teach that we, as figures in sports, have a duty to recognize what has been given to us,” he continued. “Then, mistakes can always be made, and the important thing is to be able to rectify them to become better.”
“The Federation’s decision regarding Tonali and Zaniolo is correct based on what has happened,” Spalletti added. “You can’t take two young men who are in shock and have them play such an important match.”
“Now, we go to play, and we remain an incredibly strong team,” the coach continued, shifting the focus back to the field. “We lose two champions. Zaniolo, when free from some off-field vices, is an extraordinary player. Tonali possesses strength and consistency. I hope to see them back as soon as possible.”
“But those who will play in their place are equally strong,” he continued. “We have an infinite potential. I’m not looking for excuses. Either we win, or we are at a lower level than what Italy deserves.“
