Luciano Spalletti confirmed that Gianluca Mancini will return to the starting XI for Italy’s EURO 2024 match against Switzerland. Spalletti addressed the media on the eve of their Euro 2024 Round of 16 clash, providing some insights into his team selection and tactical approach for the crucial match at Berlin’s Olympiastadion.
Spalletti confirmed that Roma defender Gianluca Mancini will replace the suspended Riccardo Calafiori in the starting lineup. “Mancini has the right experience, and in this case, I prefer to have a right-footed player on the right side of central defense and a left-footed player on the left,” Spalletti explained.
The coach revealed that his “only doubt” for the starting XI was the choice between strikers Gianluca Scamacca and Mateo Retegui. Spalletti praised Scamacca’s abilities, stating, “Scamacca can score a goal at any moment, he has that quality and creativity, those moments of magic.” However, he also noted areas for improvement, particularly in Scamacca’s ability to link up with the team consistently.
Regarding the team’s overall performance in the tournament so far, Spalletti acknowledged the need for improvement. “We have not managed to show all our potential so far, or maybe we only did so in a few moments,” he admitted. The coach emphasized the importance of elevating their game, especially in terms of personality and maintaining consistent performance levels throughout matches.
Spalletti also addressed the historical significance of playing at the Olympiastadion, where Italy won the 2006 World Cup. He mentioned that Gianluigi Buffon, now part of the coaching staff, had shared memories of that triumph with the current squad, adding extra motivation for the team.
As for the possibility of a penalty shootout, Spalletti remained pragmatic: “The penalty taker is whoever can handle the emotional pressure at that moment.” He added that while the team has practiced penalties, the focus remains on winning the match in regular time.
The coach expressed respect for Switzerland and their manager Murat Yakin, recognizing the challenge ahead. “The Switzerland coach is very good. You can see how well organized they are on the pitch,” Spalletti noted, while also expressing confidence in Italy’s ability to compete at their best.
With Federico Dimarco ruled out due to injury and Alessandro Bastoni recovering from flu symptoms, Italy’s defensive lineup may see further adjustments. Spalletti confirmed that a final decision on Bastoni’s availability would be made on the day of the match.
