Italy CT Roberto complains about lack of options in attack ahead of their match against England: ‘Wilfried Gnonto is the only exception, Lorenzo Insigne can still be useful.’
The Italian tactician released an interview with Il Messaggero highlighting his problems ahead of the Euro qualifiers opener against The Three Lions, especially in the attacking department.
“Ciro Immobile is out, Giacomo Raspadori is in doubt. We don’t have a regular starter except for Gnonto who plays a little more consistently for Leeds United. He can play as a centre-forward.
“Gianluca Scamacca is also coming back from an injury, and Andrea Belotti doesn’t play much. We have options in midfield and defence, but we have problems in attack. Not because we have no talents, but because they don’t play.”
One of the options for Mancio could be former Roma forward Nicolò Zaniolo who joined Galatasaray on a permanent deal in February.
“I also told him to join Galatasaray. I hope he gets regular playing time there because it’s important for us. Going to Turkey was his only chance,” noted Mancini, who confirmed he could call up for the first time FCSB forward Andrea Compagno, who was among the most prolific Italian strikers in 2022.
“I’ve been following Compagno for two years, he always plays and scores,” admitted Mancini.
“Moise Kean is young and we hope he improves. I hope Raspadori recovers in time because he has unique qualities.”
Insigne who was part of Italy’s team at Euro 2020 could also be included in the squad for the upcoming fixtures.
“Why not? Lorenzo can still be useful, we’ll see,” confirmed the coach.
The Azzurri will face England on March 23 and Malta three days later. Those will be the first international fixtures since the death of Gianluca Vialli this past January. The ex-forward was Italy’s delegation chief during the Euros almost two years ago as well as one of Mancini’s closest friends.
“Those will be tough days. The sense of emptiness I feel every day will be even bigger, but what he left us must be useful for the present and the future,” said the coach.
Lastly, Mancio discussed the hierarchy in goal and in defence for the Azzurri.
“Gigio [Donnarumma] is our No.1. We’ve always called Alex Meret because we appreciate him, but the hierarchy is clear.
“Leonardo Bonucci will come with us. He is even rested now. There is time to think about his successor.”
Zaniolo, Chiesa, Gnonto, Zaccagni, Politano, Kean will have to the the forwards called up.