Giampiero Ventura believes his Italy can do “important things” against Spain but “it’s one thing saying it, it’s another doing it”.
The Azzurri face a crucial World Cup qualifier in Madrid tomorrow, with both sides locked on 16 points at the top of the group.
“I’m glad to be able to play this, it’s a wonderful, exciting experience,” Ventura said in his pre-match Press conference.
Giampiero Ventura believes his Italy can do “important things” against Spain but “it’s one thing saying it, it’s another doing it”.
The Azzurri face a crucial World Cup qualifier in Madrid tomorrow, with both sides locked on 16 points at the top of the group.
“I’m glad to be able to play this, it’s a wonderful, exciting experience,” Ventura said in his pre-match Press conference.
“It’s a game between two quality teams, Spain have so many individuals with quality and put together they can do anything.
“I don’t know if [Marco] Asensio will play tomorrow in place of someone else but it’s Spain and they’re playing at the Bernabeu, they’ll play to win.
“The problem is what I expect from Italy. We can do important things, but it’s one thing saying it, it’s another doing it.”
Ventura was then asked what kind of condition his squad is in.
“I’m scare to speak, yesterday I said Giorgio Chiellini was fine…
“All joking aside, it’d be the same whether we were playing Spain or Albania.
“Chiellini’s injury won’t change my decisions, nothing has changed other than the fact we’ve lost an important player.”
Leonardo Spinazzola is in the squad despite not playing for Atalanta, as he was hoping to return to Juventus.
“It’s an honour to coach the national team, aside from the hair loss and the wrinkles,” Ventura said.
“In terms of the transfer market I’d say the answer is obvious.
“We’ve talked about the Spinazzola thing, the transfer market – in all European countries – should close at least a day before the leagues start.”