Italy and Juventus legend Alessandro Del Piero admits’ he’d like to play for Saudi Arabia or Morocco and insists today’s players are ‘more protected’ than 15 years ago despite Neymar’s injury.
The 2006 Italy World Cup winner shared his view on the World Cup s from Qatar in an interview with La Gazzetta Dello Sport.
“We’ve seen a bit of everything so far, but the truth is that there is more and more balance and this World Cup has proved it,” he said.
“Then the mental aspect will be crucial going forward. It will be interesting to see who is the favourite.
“Some teams have had a strong start, but not always those who have the best start end up winning. You must have all the characteristics in seven games, including winning when you don’t play well. There isn’t a favourite team, at the moment.”
Del Piero picked Argentina, Brazil, Spain or France among the World Cup teams he’d like to play for but also added Saudi Arabia and Morocco, described as “two tough sides, who have had a great start.”
Del Piero lifted the World Cup with the Azzurri in 2006, scoring a goal in the semi-final against Germany and converting a spot-kick in the shootout in the Final against France in Berlin.
“Italy are on the same level as many other teams at the World Cup, but we didn’t qualify so it makes no sense to talk about it. It’s a dramatic moment for us, some reflection must be made, it’s not something to be taken lightheartedly.”
Brazil star Neymar has suffered an ankle injury that will force him to the sidelines until the knock-out phase and Tite said that big stars should be more protected.
“This matter has been on the table for a long time and I hope Neymar returns as soon as possible,” said Del Piero.
“Hover, today, players are much more protected than during my time. They can play more serenely. They are more protected by referees, cameras, and rules. If you look back to 15 years ago, what should we say?”
Last but not least, Del Piero commented on the performances of Juventus and Serie A players in Qatar.
“Rabiot was doing well at Juventus, Szczesny has had highs and lows because of his injury, but it’s always nice to see that Serie A players, such as Theo and Giroud, do well at the World Cup, so we can talk a little bit about Italy even when we are not there.”
Del Piero scored 27 goals in 91 appearances with the Azzurri and made his senior debut in 1995 in a 4-1 win over Estonia at the Stadio Arechi.
He is the player with the most appearances and goals for Juventus and featured in 478 Serie A games during his career.
Legend!
Right. Saudi Arabia had 3 Shots on Net and scored on 2 of them. They played a high press. Something I don’t think Del Piero would have excelled at.