Andrea Ranocchia has called for Italy’s up-and-coming defenders to be given time to mature, as he looks ahead to the Euro 2016 qualifier with Croatia.
Giorgio Chiellini had previously bemoaned a generational gap in Italian football saying that there was a dearth of Serie A talent in their mid-20s, but praised the likes of Daniele Rugani who could make his Italy debut against either Croatia or Albania.
Andrea Ranocchia has called for Italy’s up-and-coming defenders to be given time to mature, as he looks ahead to the Euro 2016 qualifier with Croatia.
Giorgio Chiellini had previously bemoaned a generational gap in Italian football saying that there was a dearth of Serie A talent in their mid-20s, but praised the likes of Daniele Rugani who could make his Italy debut against either Croatia or Albania.
Ranocchia echoed that praise, and says that the new crop of Italian defenders could be the bedrock of the Azzurri for years to come.
“It’s true that there aren’t many [defenders in their mid-20s],” Ranochhia told assembled media in a Press conference ahead of the Euro 2016 qualifier with Croatia.
“We’ve got Rugani here with us, who’s very young. Give them time. Thankfully, many of us can be part of this team for a long time.”
The Inter centre-back also spoke about the Azzurri’s upcoming opponents, while praising CT Antonio Conte’s preparation.
“We’re working well. We’ll watch videos of them, and study them.
“We’re going to play an aggressive game, it’s the way this Italy must play.
“The Coach tries to make things easy. We’re working hard on what to do with and without the ball.
“Clearly, there are many factors which could affect the outcome.
“It will be a good atmosphere, the boost the fans give us is always important.
“I hope San Siro fills up even more [than the reported 50,000 attendance].”
The inclusion of Mario Balotelli in Conte’s latest squad has been the source of some controversy, but Ranocchia believes that the former Juve Coach can help Super Mario get back to the top.
“He is doing well, as are all the strikers. He scores goals when he needs too, and defends when he’s needed.
“I hope that this new group, and this new Coach will give him the help he needs to get back to the level he deserves, because he has a lot of quality.”