Fabio Capello doesn’t seem to be overly optimistic about Italy’s chances of success at the 2012 European Championship.
The Azzurri qualified for the competition with real ease, but boss Cesare Prandelli’s side are not in good form and their preparations have been hit by the betting scandal.
Fabio Capello doesn’t seem to be overly optimistic about Italy’s chances of success at the 2012 European Championship.
The Azzurri qualified for the competition with real ease, but boss Cesare Prandelli’s side are not in good form and their preparations have been hit by the betting scandal.
“Unfortunately Italy have had injuries and problems that they were not expecting,” the former England tactician noted.
“That will not help, especially as they will start against Spain whom I consider to be favourites for the competition.
“However, I’ve seen that the side has regained some tranquillity after their visit to Auschwitz. It is a place which brings you back down to earth.”
Italy have a history of doing well in the face of adversity after their issues on the eve of their World Cup successes in 1982 and 2006.
“I don’t know if the national squad, on this occasion, will be able to compact themselves,” Capello continued given the latest domestic match fixing storm.
The former Milan, Roma and Juventus boss is out of a job after leaving his England post this year, but a return to Italian football is unlikely.
“I’ve had some offers, but they were of no interest to me and I turned them down,” noted the former midfielder.
“If something exciting and interesting under certain aspects was offered to me then I could say yes, but I’ve already worked quite a lot in Italy.
“I’ve been abroad for five years and, although I love my country, I’m happy.”