Luciano Spalletti admits Sandro Tonali may be ‘releasing anger’ after a 10-month betting ban and confirms Federico Chiesa could get his chance in the upcoming Italy games.
The Azzurri coach spoke at a press conference Monday night after a 4-1 Nations League win over Israel.
Spalletti introduced several young players to the Azzurri squad after a disappointing European Championship last summer, and Daniel Maldini was the latest talent to make his senior debut with the Azzurri last night.
“These lads have proved they deserve the national team. After the Euros, I wanted to rejuvenate the team a little, but they’ve all proved they’re genuinely up to the task,” said the CT, as quoted by TMW.
Sandro Tonali missed the 2024 Euros, serving a 10-month ban for illegal betting. The Newcastle United star returned to action this past August and has already made four appearances under Spalletti since the end of his suspension.
“Tonali is immense in what he does. He’s incredible, and the game could last forever for him,” said the Azzurri coach.
“When he turns the car on, he goes full speed and doesn’t change when he turns it off. Perhaps he is still releasing anger after what happened last year.”
Nicolò Fagioli had served a seven-month ban for the same reason and has returned to the national team as well. Contrary to Tonali, his ban ended before the Euros, so he was introduced to the team for last summer’s competition.
“They’ve felt everyone’s trust. We discussed how to recover them,” Spalletti revealed.
“When guys like them realise this, they can make a difference.”
Nicolò Barella missed the last four Italy games with minor injuries. How will he fit in this team?
“He can play as a No.10, like Frattesi, who is moving well,” Spalletti replied.
“He is not an ordinary player when it comes to late runs. It’s hard to catch him. When the lads are this smart, they find space alone.
“We have many young players for the national team’s future,” concluded the coach.
“The U21 is full of talents who can emerge. Maldini played for a few minutes but proved he could do anything. We can still call Baldanzi, Chiesa, and Zaniolo.”