Roberto Mancini warns Italy fans not to expect a radical generational shift when Italy face Argentina in June. ‘It’ll be those who won the Euros, therefore also Lorenzo Insigne and Ciro Immobile.’
It has been an eventful year for the Azzurri, who went from lifting the EURO 2020 trophy at Wembley in June 2021 to missing out on the 2022 World Cup by losing the play-offs to North Macedonia.
Mancini will be back at Wembley Stadium on June 1 for the first edition of the Finalissima – a showcase between the winners of the European Championship and the Copa America.
While many are calling for a generational shift after the World Cup flop, Mancini warns not to expect radical changes.
“There aren’t that many choices to pick from,” the CT told RAI Sport.
“As we did against Turkey, a few young players will get a chance, but if everyone is available, then it’ll be those who won the Euros against Argentina. That’s because this was a match they earned by winning the European Championship.”
Insigne and Immobile said they haven’t yet made a decision on whether to continue their international careers following the bitter criticism received over the World Cup elimination.
“They will be there, especially for the first game against Argentina,” assured Mancini. “We’ll see what happens after that, but this is the plan.
“A month has passed since the World Cup play-off, the disappointment remains, but unfortunately there are moments when it doesn’t go your way and there’s nothing you can do about it.”