Giacomo Raspadori feels Italy have found ‘the right path to build something positive and take the initiative’ after stunning France with a 3-1 Nations League victory in Paris.
The Azzurri had gone behind within an incredible 14 seconds when Bradley Barcola robbed Giovanni Di Lorenzo, but turned it around with a Federico Dimarco volley, Davide Frattesi finish and Raspadori’s well-worked move.
“We know this is the right path to build something positive,” Raspadori told RAI Sport.
“We had to start again after a negative summer, we wanted to take control of the game, to take the initiative and were only pushed back on occasion.”
Raspadori a Jack of all trades
The Napoli striker is a very versatile figure and has been used in many different roles. He came off the bench at half-time to replace Lorenzo Pellegrini and act as support for Mateo Retegui, so is that the right solution for him?
“I do think my characteristics mean second striker is the best fit for me, as I can choose when to combine with the striker or when to drop further back and tie the moves together with the midfield. I feel that is where I can express myself the best.
“I have been fortunate enough to work with many great coaches, so I tried to learn when it was the right moment to go forward, to drop back, to connect. I am good at reading the phases of the game.”
Raspadori had an opportunity to score soon after coming off the bench, when he scuffed a finish from the edge of the area, even when teammates were waiting for the pass.
“It was your classic situation where if you score, you’re right, and if you don’t then it’s only fair your teammate hurls insults at you.”
Luciano Spalletti confessed this week that he had made a mistake by putting too much pressure on the players at EURO 2024 and would learn from it, making sure they never forget to enjoy their football.
“What the coach said to you reflects what he has said to us,” confirmed Raspadori.
“When there are such important competitions, there is a lot of pressure, much higher than many of us are accustomed to. We are trying to work hard and also have the right level of calm to prepare for games of this level.”