Cesare Maldini believes Italy can do very well at Euro 2016. “We should not be afraid of anyone.”
The Azzurri have been placed in Group E with Belgium, Sweden and the Republic of Ireland.
“Before every major tournament we always ask ourselves the same questions, but Italy should not be afraid of anyone,” former Nazionale Coach Maldini told GianlucaDiMarzio.com.
Cesare Maldini believes Italy can do very well at Euro 2016. “We should not be afraid of anyone.”
The Azzurri have been placed in Group E with Belgium, Sweden and the Republic of Ireland.
“Before every major tournament we always ask ourselves the same questions, but Italy should not be afraid of anyone,” former Nazionale Coach Maldini told GianlucaDiMarzio.com.
“It’s a difficult group, but in my view we are the strongest team, as shown by what we did during the qualifying campaign.
“Belgium and Sweden might be able to count on a few more excellent individuals, but our collective has often been worth more, history shows.
“The Euros are all different. In some editions we reached the Final despite not starting among the favourites, while in others we didn’t get through the group phase regardless of the star names in our squad.
“A lot will depend on the current form of the players, timing of injuries and also good luck. There will be surprises in this tournament and hopefully Italy will be among them.”
Coach Antonio Conte warned players will have to work hard to prove him wrong and break into his squad ahead of the competition in France.
“I think Conte has done very well, taking into consideration that players that Serie A puts at his disposal,” continued Maldini.
“We have a team with a precise identity and some very interesting young players. At the moment we don’t have the champions of the past, but in this year and a half he has built a solid group.
“Many things could happen from now to May and already some interesting young players are making their mark. If Domenico Berardi continues to play well for Sassuolo and the Under-21 side, then Conte will certainly consider him for a call-up.”