Roberto Mancini claims ‘barring Brazil, I haven’t seen a national team better than Italy at the World Cup.’
This is the first World Cup that Italy have not participated in for 60 years, but Mancini made it clear he was not impressed by several sides in Russia, agreeing with some fans that ‘we could’ve held our own’.
“Judging from the games I’ve watched so far and barring Brazil, I haven’t seen a national team better than us,” the CT told Canale 5.
Roberto Mancini claims ‘barring Brazil, I haven’t seen a national team better than Italy at the World Cup.’
This is the first World Cup that Italy have not participated in for 60 years, but Mancini made it clear he was not impressed by several sides in Russia, agreeing with some fans that ‘we could’ve held our own’.
“Judging from the games I’ve watched so far and barring Brazil, I haven’t seen a national team better than us,” the CT told Canale 5.
“Whenever I meet any Italians, they tell me we could’ve held our own in Russia, and seeing the teams who are there, I agree. It’s disappointing to watch a World Cup without Italy.
“Still, not everything is as negative as many have said. Not qualifying was devastating, but the players we have are young and good.
“We must have enthusiasm for the national team and everyone must row on the same boat.
“I’ve found a very willing group of players. I hope they all play regularly so that they can grow a lot between now and two years’ time.
“We must try to qualify for the Euros [in 2020] and build a team who can aim for victory. After that, we’ll think about the next World Cup.”