Roberto Mancini is fired up for Italy’s first Nations League game against Poland tomorrow. “The system isn’t as important as the attitude.”
The Coach makes his competitive Azzurri debut in the UEFA Nations League tie, which kicks off on Friday at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT).
It is hosted by the Stadio Dall’Ara in Bologna, where Mancio also made his Serie A playing debut.
Roberto Mancini is fired up for Italy’s first Nations League game against Poland tomorrow. “The system isn’t as important as the attitude.”
The Coach makes his competitive Azzurri debut in the UEFA Nations League tie, which kicks off on Friday at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT).
It is hosted by the Stadio Dall’Ara in Bologna, where Mancio also made his Serie A playing debut.
“Obviously, there were strong sensations when I made my debut and tomorrow is the first official game, so clearly there is a special sentiment there,” said the CT in his Press conference.
“I have already decided both the starting XI and the 23 for the full squad, but before telling you, I feel it is only right to talk to the players first. After I’ve told them, I can reveal the line-up to you tomorrow.”
Genoa left-back Domenico Criscito is unlikely to be in there, as he is still not 100 per cent fit.
“He is doing fairly well, but is still recovering from an injury he suffered a month ago. I am concerned by those who haven’t played very much so far this season. We have two games in three days, the players aren’t at their peak, so there will be a lot of squad rotation.”
Mancini is leaning towards the 4-3-3 formation in this new era for the Nazionale.
“I don’t think the tactical system is as important as the attitude held by the team. It went pretty well with our friendlies in June. I do think the Nations League is a positive development, as it’s better for the players to feel they are fighting for three points. It can help us to introduce young players on to the international stage.
“On paper, we are in a group with some very strong teams, perhaps stronger than us at this current time. We have to attack and play to win. Italy failed to qualify because we didn’t score a goal against Sweden over two legs and need to work on being more clinical.
“There is no time to lose and we’ve got some issues, but this tournament could give us some satisfaction.”