Xherdan Shaqiri is ‘happy’ to see his former Inter coach Roberto Mancini again, as Switzerland face ‘spectacular’ Italy in Euro 2020.
The Group A match kicks off on Wednesday at 20.00 UK time (19.00 GMT) at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome.
“I can’t wait to play this game and I also can’t wait to see Roberto tomorrow,” said Shaqiri in his press conference.
“He’s a great man and I am happy for him that things are going so well. Italy are an excellent team, among the favourites to win the competition. We saw the way Italy played in the first game against Turkey and Mancini proved he’s a great coach.”
While the Azzurri opened with a 3-0 triumph, Switzerland were held to a 1-1 draw by Wales.
“We did create some good chances against Wales and had the opportunities to win, but obviously it wasn’t perfect and we can improve. We need to be more clinical in the final third.
“It’s going to be a very different game, as Italy will come out and attack us. This is no longer the Italy that traditionally used to focus on defence, as the current side is spectacular, playing a very attacking style and enjoying their football.
“They have also kept nine consecutive clean sheets and that shows how strong they are, to score so many goals and concede so few.
“It’s a very balanced team, able to attack and defend. They might not have the big stars of the past, like Andrea Pirlo, but they play well together and Mancini has done a great job.”
Shaqiri was asked about his own situation both at international and club level.
“I would prefer not to talk about it at the moment, but I am still under contract with Liverpool. I will talk to my agent afterwards, evaluate the situation and make a decision.
“I’ve been playing in the Swiss national team for 11 years and have been in the same role since the first day. I might be older now, but my style has not changed. I try to help the team with assists and goals.”