Sven-Goran Eriksson doubts Italy’s chances at the upcoming European Championship and praised Atalanta following their Europa League triumph over Bayer Leverkusen.
The former Lazio and Sampdoria coach will visit the Stadio Olimpico for the Biancocelesti’s Serie A clash with Sassuolo on Sunday evening, where he’ll be welcomed by the fans following his recent announcement of terminal cancer.
Luciano Spalletti’s Italy are gearing up for the upcoming European Championship in Germany, which kicks off on June 14th. The Azzurri are in Group B alongside Croatia, Spain and Albania, setting up a tough group for the defending champions.
Eriksson interview
Speaking to La Repubblica, Eriksson first discussed his return to Italy.
“I remain Swedish but now there is also a Latin soul inside me, because I lived in southern European countries for a long time.
“One of my many homes, where I spent 13 unforgettable years. Here we live very, very well. There is no place so beautiful, the people are friendly, the food fantastic. And football is really important, you have one of the most prestigious tournaments in Europe and the world.”
He spoke about the changes in the footballing landscape since his time in Italy.
“Yes, the Premier League is at the top, not Serie A, as in the 80s and 90s. But your league is making a comeback, as demonstrated by the results of the Italian clubs in the European cups, they never lie.”
Eriksson reflected on the Europa League final.
“Of course, I really liked the match, a very clear 3-0. Congratulations to Atalanta, they defended very well, away from their goal, with great aggression.
“You can see Gasperini’s in-depth work on his players, who have all improved. Nobody thought Atalanta was among the favourites of the tournament, but the final showed that they were the best team.”
He spoke about Claudio Ranieri.
“A trained professional, but above all a great man. We challenged each other on the pitch but not exactly on equal terms, I often had the stronger players.”
The Swede remembered his famous Lazio squad.
“A team full of stars. But they always behaved well, everyone worked, ran for each other. It was a pleasure to coach them.”
Eriksson looked back at his work with Carlo Ancelotti.
“I coached Carlo many years ago at Roma, when he became captain after the sale of Di Bartolomei. He knows how to create a very strong environment.
“When you have so many champions, it’s easy for someone to feel like they’re too much or become selfish. You have to understand who does the good of the group.”
He confirmed that he tried to renew the Lazio squad after winning the Scudetto.
“We talked about it, yes. We won seven trophies in three years, something had to change, because success only comes with motivation, with hunger. Winning teams shouldn’t be overturned, but they always need to be tweaked.”
Eriksson named his favourites for Euro 2024.
“They (England, ed.) are my favourites alongside France, who I see as very strong. I also like Spain and Germany, who have the advantage of playing at home.”
He was less confident of Italy’s chances.
“I hope they go very far, I’ll cheer for you. But I honestly don’t think they can win.”
Eriksson was asked if there was a successor of his in football.
“There are many good coaches. I exchanged a few words with Jurgen Klopp when I went to Liverpool. I have always admired him for how he behaves on the pitch and for what he says into the microphones. He has a very strong image. And behind it you can clearly see a special person.”
Finally, Eriksson discussed the tribute he’ll receive at the Stadio Olimpico.
“But it’s me who has to thank you. These days give me honour, they give me energy, they give me life.”
To win a tournament is v.difficult. To defend it is almost impossible.
BUT. Who amongst the international media and ‘expert’ pundits gave us a chance last time? They’re only ever obsessed with the French (won their first trophy thanks to an Italian), the English because all the betting companies back them, the Germans of course and whoever else they see as fashionable. We steamrolled the entire continent last time out – made the hosts so upset they tried to destroy their own national stadium. In 2006, they gave us no chance and spend most of the aftermath weeping for ‘Zizou’. Do we really care what Sven thinks? The last time his country had a serious football team, it was 1994. And even then we went further. BORING!!!
Italy have a chance. Not as much as the last Euros, which I backed them to win, but still a decent shot. They are in a tough group, though, and it’s hard to see where the goals will come from. However, Italy have some of the world’s best centre-backs, so if the defence is tight, then a lack of goals may not be the hindrance it normally would be.
@Ferban.
If we don’t get 3 points in the first game, we will most likely go home. Goals continue to be a problem but historically and whenever italy do well, the entire team contributes with goals. Udogie is a big miss.
Quality runs deep in this squad