Roberto Mancini is happy with the impact of Italy debutants and is convinced the Azzurri ‘will cause trouble’ for England.
The Azzurri hos the Three Lions at the Stadio Maradona in Naples tonight in the first match of the Euro 2024 qualifiers.
It kicks off at 19.45 GMT.
“It’s fascinating because playing these sorts of games is important. It’s the first match, so it’s difficult,” Mancini told FIGC.
“It has become a classic match; we’ve played England so many times in the last two years, that it has become similar to Italy-Germany.”
Mancio expects a big push from the Maradona crowd: “It’s always been like this in Naples. Surely, it will be a nice night and fans will support us.
“I believe England are one of the best teams in the world,” he continued.
“They have quality players, it will be difficult for us, but I am convinced we’ll cause trouble for them. I repeat it’s not going to be easy for either team.
“We start a new path, we hope we can do better, hoping to reach our targets. I believe the team is good, with young players who need to play and gain experience. I believe we can build a competitive team.”
Argentine-born forward Mateo Retegui is expected to start against England tonight but was not the only debutant at Coverciano this week. Is Mancini happy with the impact of newcomers?
“Yes, even if we haven’t worked together for a long time, two days are not many, but I think this a good group.”
Tonight’s fixture will be the first match since the death of Gianluca Vialli in January and the Azzurri will honour the legendary striker with a special patch placed inside the collar of their shirts.
“Luca will always remain in our hearts even if physically he is no longer here, he was a special person,” concluded Mancini.
The Azzurri CT had also spoken about Vialli in his pre-match press conference on Wednesday, saying that his former Sampdoria teammate is ‘immortal.’