FIGC Vice-Commissioner Alessandro Costacurta praised Roberto Mancini for recalling Mario Balotelli and hopes to change Gigi Buffon’s mind.
The Azzurri finally appointed Mancini as their new Coach this week and he called up Balotelli for his first friendlies against Saudi Arabia, France and the Netherlands.
“I thank Mancini, because with his decisions he has really helped bring the fans back towards the Nazionale,” said Costacurta.
FIGC Vice-Commissioner Alessandro Costacurta praised Roberto Mancini for recalling Mario Balotelli and hopes to change Gigi Buffon’s mind.
The Azzurri finally appointed Mancini as their new Coach this week and he called up Balotelli for his first friendlies against Saudi Arabia, France and the Netherlands.
“I thank Mancini, because with his decisions he has really helped bring the fans back towards the Nazionale,” said Costacurta.
“As for Balotelli, becoming a parent does change you and nobody can attest that more than Mancini. I think Balotelli’s performances on the field were worthy of a call-up.”
However, Buffon rejected the chance to make one last Italy appearance at the Juventus Stadium in Turin against Holland.
“I was not surprised by that, as it had been hinted at in his previous comments. Clearly I would’ve liked to give him that salute, but I respect his choices.
“It would’ve been nice for all of Italy, and not just Juventus, to thank him for all he’s done over the years. At this stage, I don’t think he’s going to change his mind, even though it doesn’t hurt to make a call or a text.”