Luciano Spalletti admits the EURO 2024 draw ‘could’ve gone better’ after being paired with Spain, Croatia and Albania, but ‘never forget that we are Italy. And we hope Luca Vialli will protect us.’
The Azzurri were always going to risk a terrible group after their disappointing results in qualifying saw them placed in Pot 4 for today’s draw in Hamburg and it was certainly not an easy pick of the bunch.
They open with Albania on June 15 in Dortmund, then face Spain on June 20 in Gelsenkirchen before Croatia on June 24 in Leipzig.
“It could’ve gone better, but then we were in Pot 4. And never forget that we are Italy,” Spalletti told RAI Sport after the draw.
Despite being the reigning Champions of Italy, having won the tournament in EURO 2020, they were given no bonus when defending their title in Germany.
“It is difficult to make predictions now, there are many months to go. Albania have certainly proved they are well-organised, while we know a great deal will depend on our form at that moment, the preparation we manage to do going into the competition and how we work together.
“Croatia are a strong, experienced side. Some of their players are getting on a bit, but I know some of them are at the top level.”
The toughest opponents on paper are Spain, who beat Italy twice in the Nations League semi-finals, but lost the EURO 2020 semi-final on penalties.
“Anyone who loves this sport must enjoy the challenge, otherwise you lose all the pleasure of it,” noted Spalletti.
“Within a match there are going to be various moments where the squad has to defend, even with 10 men around the edge of the box if necessary, but the intention is always to play attractive and attacking football.”
Spalletti concluded with a fervent prayer, knowing that since the EURO 2020 victory at Wembley, Italy have lost Team Manager Gianluca Vialli.
“And may Vialli protect us.”
If we can refind the same team spirit that won the last European championships we can do it again ! IF !
Italy can beat anyone on any given day. Like teams from the past, when expectations are low gli Azzurri tend to rise to the occasion. This draw could wind up being a total disaster or a blessing in disguise. Spaletti will figure it out.
Albania and Spain I would have taken – but throwing Croatia into the mix has upset Italy’s chances a bit. Italy last beat Croatia in 1942. The last three meetings have been draws. So, on paper, beat Albania, lose to Spain draw with Croatia = 4 points. Gulp.
To be champions, you need to beat the rest and the greats!
Forza Azzurri!