Roberto Mancini explains Manuel Locatelli’s new Italy role as alternative to Jorginho in the victory over Belgium and warns the World Cup qualifier with Switzerland is ‘the game of the year after the Euros.’
The Azzurri got back on track after the 37-match world record unbeaten streak came to an end against Spain, seeing off Belgium 2-1 in Turin for third place in the Nations League.
“They were two very good games. We changed a few players, but despite that, the team still put in a good performance,” said the coach in his press conference.
The midfield was almost totally transformed today, with Nicolò Barella the only remaining figure, joined by Manuel Locatelli and Lorenzo Pellegrini.
“When Jorginho is out, we need alternatives as a playmaker. Stefano Sensi is unavailable and Bryan Cristante has already played in that role, but Locatelli has the qualities to do it and did very well today. He can play as an internal midfielder or a playmaker, so this is an extra option at our disposal.”
There were also adjustments upfront, with Sassuolo pair Domenico Berardi and Giacomo Raspadori partnered by Federico Chiesa.
It was a change from the False 9 experiment with Federico Bernardeschi against Spain, forced by injuries to Ciro Immobile and Andrea Belotti.
“Immobile and Belotti have experience, they know everyone and have been missed, so we needed to try some new options there too. Raspadori has a great future ahead of him.”
Italy’s next challenge in November will be a head-to-head with Switzerland for the 2022 World Cup qualifiers.
Thanks to last night’s win over Northern Ireland, the Swiss are just three points behind the Azzurri and have a game in hand.
“It’s going to be a difficult match, just as it was in the Euros and again when we met in Basel,” added Mancini.
“We’re playing on home turf and it will be the game of the year after the Euros. We know that we have to win.”