Italy’s national football team is gearing up for their final two UEFA Nations League group stage matches against Belgium in Brussels on November 14th and France in Milan on November 17th. The Azzurri currently lead Group 2 of League A with 10 points after four matches, and head coach Luciano Spalletti is focused on maintaining momentum.
In a press conference at the team’s training camp in Coverciano, Spalletti praised the competitiveness of Italian club football this season. “I complimented the players this morning for how they are conducting their season. They are showcasing good football, and this competitiveness benefits everyone,” he said. He emphasized that the exciting matches in Serie A, such as Inter vs. Napoli, demonstrate the growth of Italian football.
Spalletti expressed satisfaction with strikers Moise Kean and Mateo Retegui, stating, “We are happy with the two strikers; they are showing what we hoped for.” He noted that both players could potentially play together, explaining, “Kean can also operate as a winger; he creates danger with his strength and physicality. Retegui is more of a poacher, good at finding space in the box.”
The coach highlighted the importance of building on recent performances, saying, “This gathering is about continuity. We need to maintain what we’ve shown so far.” He pointed out that statistics indicate significant improvement: “We have shot more on target and been closer to our opponents’ goal than before. This is crucial as we face strong opponents.”
Regarding injuries, Spalletti confirmed that Samuele Ricci would return home due to fitness concerns, stating, “If a player risks injury, we won’t bring him along. It would have been difficult to recover him before the match.” Manuel Locatelli has been called up as a replacement.
Spalletti stressed the need to avoid complacency despite only needing one point to advance in the tournament. “The first thing to do is not to think like that,” he cautioned. “We must consider who we have in front of us: Belgium has top players in major European clubs. If anyone relaxes, it’s better they go home.” He added that both upcoming matches are challenging and that “presumption is the first thing we must combat.”
On the topic of team dynamics, Spalletti noted that the players have absorbed new tactical systems well: “They are calm and aware of their strengths. We are pleased they have fully embraced our tactical approach.”
He also addressed the broader role of football in society during these delicate times: “We must show we are sensitive people and help those in need when possible. Football should be run by serious individuals.” He reiterated his call for improvements to Italy’s stadiums: “We cannot have matches played in outdated stadiums; we need to catch up with others.”
