Nicolò Barella cites Italy’s ‘enthusiasm and lack of jealousy’ for their remarkable run of results after beating Switzerland 3-0.
This was their 10th consecutive victory with 10 clean sheets, secured thanks to a Manuel Locatelli double and late Ciro Immobile scorcher.
“I don’t think there are secrets to our success, you can see this is a group that feels unity and enthusiasm, both on and off the field. We take that into our football, so we win and are convincing,” Barella told RAI Sport.
What will happen when Marco Verratti returns from injury and Locatelli has to step aside?
“There’s nothing to say Locatelli will make way, it might be me! I’ve always said the unity is everything in this group, it doesn’t matter who plays, we all bring the same spirit and give our contribution. There is no jealousy, no professional envy between us.”
Locatelli bagged a brace, Jorginho is the penalty taker, but Barella isn’t feeling left out.
“I just try to help the team and I am happy no matter who scores. I don’t need goals to feel happy.”
Although Italy have qualified for the Round of 16 already, they go head-to-head for first place in Group A.
“We want the same against Wales. We play to win, because that is our mentality. We are feeling confident and would like to go through with three wins in the group.”