Antonio Conte says that Italy intend to play with pride when they host Croatia for Euro 2016 qualifying on November 16 in Milan.
The former Juventus Coach has led the Azzurri to four wins in his first four games in charge, and welcomes the prospect of facing Croatia at San Siro in 11 days’ time.
“We have started on this path and this game will have to give us some answers,” Conte considered in a Press conference held at Palazzo Marino in Milan.
Antonio Conte says that Italy intend to play with pride when they host Croatia for Euro 2016 qualifying on November 16 in Milan.
The former Juventus Coach has led the Azzurri to four wins in his first four games in charge, and welcomes the prospect of facing Croatia at San Siro in 11 days’ time.
“We have started on this path and this game will have to give us some answers,” Conte considered in a Press conference held at Palazzo Marino in Milan.
“San Siro is a football temple and we are happy to play here against such a strong side.
“I really hope that the fans will support us and that we can make them proud of this national team.
“Historically, it’s a very positive moment for Croatia, with some players who are regular starters in some of the major European clubs.
“Mateo Kovacic for instance is showing to be a strong player, a good prospect, despite his age.
“The same goes for Andrej Kramaric, who has been linked with some Italian clubs.
“But there are many strong players and it’s a Team with a capital T. They have more certainties than us, whilst we are trying to rebuild.
“It will be a good chance to see at what stage we are with our growth process.
“I want San Siro to be sold out for the national team, because we want to deliver excitement and play with pride.
“We have experienced a big disappointment [in the summer] and there are other serious problems that make us inferior to other nations like Germany, Spain, the Netherlands, France and Belgium.
“But we know that we have time to close the gap with commitment and will, trying to grow under every point of view.
“The first target is to qualify for the European Championships in order to be able to be competitive with everyone.”
Conte appeared more focused than ever to do well with Italy in what appears to be a multi-task duty.
“The choice to become Coach of the national team has been an important step for me, after I had concluded my experience at club level.
“This is a different path, but I’ve got a lot of enthusiasm and I really want to do well with the team and the Italian Football Federation.”