The blue coach on the eve of the match between Italy and Hungary: “He is only 18 years old and we must not put pressure on him”. And on the match: “It will be tough. Anyone who expects a predictable victory is wrong.”
June 6
– Cesena
The people of Romagna, who gave an enthusiastic welcome to the national team, arrived in Cesenatico, will fill the Orogel Stadium Dino Manuzzi tomorrow evening. Sold out for 15,000 souls announced. After the good things done by the Azzurri in Bologna against Germany, after having applauded the surprise Gnonto, there is curiosity to discover other young talents.
Mancini, how many will you make your debut in this round?
“We’ll see, based on everyone’s conditions. Certainly the fact that they are rookies is no problem. There are good young people here, able to play. I want to see them at work in important games. For sure someone else will make their debut in these three matches. “.
How many will you change compared to Bologna?
“I still have to decide, based on the recovery of the players. There will be many changes. Not all, but many yes”.
If Cristante doesn’t play, who can play the central pivot? How does Locatelli see it?
“I see Locatelli as more of a midfielder, but, if necessary, he can play in the center. Among those who are here, in addition to Cristante and Locatelli, only Esposito can stay in the middle”.
Against Germany we saw a different Italy: less possession, less dribble.
“We need time and some men to recover the dribble and possession. Verratti and Jorginho have particular characteristics. But against a very strong Germany, we played at the same level and we put them in difficulty when we pressed them.”
Donnarumma is closing a troubled season well.
“For me, Donnarumma remains the best goalkeeper in Europe. He has been rested for the problem in his hand, but he wants to play, we will evaluate in the morning. He wanted to stay, like Belotti and Bonucci, even though I told them they could come back for rest. An important signal “.
Did Scamacca move as you want in Bologna?
“Scamacca is tall, powerful, technical, he can improve in the deadlift, but he’s complete. He has everything to become a great center forward.”
Much has been said about Gnonto. Too much?
“For his age, Gnonto knows how to play like few others. And he has an important speed, but he’s only 18 and we don’t have to put pressure on him. Anyway, he’s a balanced boy. The best quality he has is intelligence”.
“Rossi did an extraordinary job. Hungary beat England with merit and did excellent things at the European Championship. Difficult to beat them, he defends himself very well. It will be a tough match. Anyone who expects a foregone victory is wrong.”
June 6 – 20:42
© REPRODUCTION RESERVED