Roberto Mancini welcomes a new era for Italy against Poland and relies on Jorginho, “one of the best midfielders in Europe.”
The UEFA Nations League campaign kicks off at the Stadio Dall’Ara in Bologna at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT).
Click here for the line-ups and Liveblog.
Roberto Mancini welcomes a new era for Italy against Poland and relies on Jorginho, “one of the best midfielders in Europe.”
The UEFA Nations League campaign kicks off at the Stadio Dall’Ara in Bologna at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT).
Click here for the line-ups and Liveblog.
“I don’t know if we’re ready, as it takes a little time and requires some patience, but we must fight for the three points straight away and the youngsters realise they must always try to win with the Nazionale,” the CT told Rai Sport.
Mancini has implemented a new approach of playing music during training.
“I am happy there is a positive mood, as playing football is the most wonderful thing in the world and representing your country while doing it is even better. The players love to be here and enjoy their football, so the results can follow from that.
“I think our fitness coach chose the playlist. I’m not sure if it’s new, as this is used often abroad and brings a little fun to proceedings, especially the athletic work.
“Returning to Bologna always gives me strong sensations. My football career was born here, I arrived at 13 and made my Serie A debut at 16, so the bond with the people of this city remains.”
Mario Balotelli is back in the Italy side under Mancini, having been snubbed by Antonio Conte and Gian Piero Ventura since the 2014 World Cup.
“Balotelli doesn’t have 90 minutes in his legs, as he only played one game at club level for Nice this season."
Ventura had famously not counted on Napoli midfielder Jorginho, who has now gone to Chelsea and become a key figure for the Nazionale too.
“Jorginho has over the last three years been one of the best midfielders in Europe. I am sure he’ll improve even more playing in the Premier League, as it’s a very physical type of football and can develop different areas of his game.
“We are very optimistic for the future and not just for this team.”