Chiellini: ‘Italy need a while to get into gear’

Giorgio Chiellini returns for Italy against Switzerland in tomorrow’s World Cup qualifier and warns the 3-0 win at UEFA EURO 2020 should not fool anyone into thinking it’ll be easy.

It kicks off on Sunday at St. Jakob-Park in Basel at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT).

This represents a head-to-head at the top of the group, as the Azzurri have 10 points after four games, whereas Switzerland won both their matches so far.

Chiellini returns to the starting XI, as he was on the bench for Thursday evening’s 1-1 draw with Bulgaria in Florence.

“It is an important game tomorrow and it would’ve been even if we had beaten Bulgaria,” assured Chiellini in his press conference.

“I don’t think it will be decisive, although obviously we must avoid defeat. The first games in September are always tough, as we lack sharpness. We paid the price for that against Bulgaria, just as we struggled with Bosnia last year, but hope to get into gear just as we did in 2020.”

It was a surprise setback against Bulgaria considering Italy are unbeaten in 35 competitive matches, a new all-time record.

“Over the last three years, this team has faced some slip-ups, it hasn’t all been plain sailing. Maybe people just didn’t notice as much because they were in the Nations League, but we need that little bit extra in terms of mentality tomorrow.”

Italy beat Switzerland 3-0 during UEFA EURO 2020, with a Manuel Locatelli brace and Ciro Immobile strike.

“The result was harsh, as for 55 minutes until Locatelli’s second goal, it really was a very balanced game,” insisted the defender.

“Switzerland caused us problems and some incidents prompted us to make changes. It was very different to the 3-0 against Turkey that opened the competition. Switzerland are a strong and dangerous team, even more so tomorrow when they are on home turf.”

Chiellini was technically a free agent when he lifted the EURO 2020 trophy, but has now signed a two-year contract with Juventus. Is that so he can carry on until the 2022 World Cup?

“I signed for two years so we don’t have to keep talking about it all the time, but I am just enjoying the moment. I am in good shape now, I’m happy and I don’t set limits for myself, but nor do I look too far into the future.”