The words of Luciano Spalletti at Coverciano, where the Azzurri are preparing for the challenges against North Macedonia and Ukraine:
IMMOBILE
We consider Immobile a very important player, whom we always follow with total attention, just like we do with all players. We watch the matches, the training sessions, and take into account many factors when making the call-ups. At this moment, it seemed to me that the other 3 were in better condition, even though he scored in the last cup game, and I congratulated him.” This was stated by the Italian national team coach, Luciano Spalletti, from the training camp in Coverciano, where the team is preparing for the upcoming qualification match against North Macedonia next Friday.
THE CALL-UPS
“I make the call-ups with the goal of selecting the best players to win the matches – he added. I make choices based on the form the players are in at their clubs. When I made the first call-ups, Jorginho had never played, but he had always expressed the desire to be part of this group. I had spoken to him on the phone, and he made me feel his affection for these colors and this jersey. Now he plays regularly, is in better shape, and he is here.“
NAPOLI
I think at this point it’s unfair to talk about clubs,’ stated Spalletti. ‘But I can say that it’s not correct for a coach to constantly deal with comparisons with the past. Every coach should be judged based on their history, the work they have done, and what they are currently doing. I have always respected Garcia, who is a decent and balanced person, even in this period. It wasn’t fair for him to be compared with me ever sincethe first match of the season.“
ON THE NEXT MATCHES
— ‘Let’s try to win the first match. It’s clear that some things will be changed,’ continued the national team coach who is preparing for the matches against North Macedonia and Ukraine. Fear? We have it by our side; we walk alongside it,’ added Spalletti, responding to those who asked if he fears North Macedonia or Ukraine more. The coach then continued, ‘Against England, I saw many beams of light, and I didn’t find myself in intense darkness. Usually, defeats tend to be erased, but in that match, there are many things done well. We will restart from there”
WHO WILL BE THE CAPTAIN
A leader is the one who stays hidden when things are going well, but comes forward when they are not,’ added the Italian national team coach. “The captain is the one who is respected by opponents and the referee. I liked Donnarumma in Milan; in adverse conditions, he showed personality: he stays quiet, takes everything, doesn’t react, and shows that he is a serious professional, he will be the captain.”
