Luciano Spalletti will not stand for suggestions Italy are weakened by injuries and other matters going into the EURO 2024 qualifiers against Malta and England. ‘I have plenty of options.’
It kicks off at the Stadio San Nicola at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT).
The Azzurri won 2-0 in Malta back in March, when Roberto Mancini was still in charge, then drew 1-1 with North Macedonia and beat Ukraine 2-1.
Their next qualifier will be a very difficult trip to Wembley Stadium against group leaders England on Tuesday.
“Every match is fundamental in a competition and I think it is more important that we become aware of our own strengths and capabilities rather than focus on the strengths of Malta and England,” said the coach in his press conference.
“We must overcome these obstacles to give joy back to the fans. Tomorrow there will be a packed stadium in Bari and their help will be crucial.”
It is safe to say the build-up has been far from ideal, as Ciro Immobile, Mateo Retegui, Lorenzo Pellegrini, Mattia Zaccagni, Federico Chiesa and Ivan Provedel are injured.
Sandro Tonali and Nicolò Zaniolo were then sent home as they are under investigation for illegal betting, leaving Spalletti with precious few options.
“Chiesa tried today, he was at 30 per cent of his capabilities and still felt some pain, so there was no point waiting any longer. He was very disappointed, he really wanted to play. Zaccagni did the opposite, he arrived late and hopefully will be ready to play on Tuesday.”
Giacomo Bonaventura returns to the Italy squad after a long absence, so could he start against Malta?
“Why shouldn’t there be space for Bonaventura? He is playing great football at the moment and showing the maturity he has developed over the years, fully deserving this call-up. He can be part of the starting XI, certainly.”
Torino midfielder Samuele Ricci and Roma winger Stephan El Shaarawy were called in to bolster the numbers, so will anyone else be added to the squad?
“I already have to send one into the stands tomorrow, so why should I? We have five midfielders plus Destiny Udogie, who plays as a midfielder for Tottenham in the Premier League. I have plenty of options. It’s hard enough telling one guy to go in the stands through no fault of his own.”
When first appointed to the Italy job, Spalletti joked that this was the first time in his career that he got to choose all the players, something he was not allowed at club level.
“I feel strong because I have great players that I was allowed to choose. We all have extraordinary ambitions and we work during the week as if we’re at a club.
“The mistake we cannot make against Malta is to be arrogant, because where arrogance begins is where growth ends. We must earn every single result and develop the kind of football the fans want to see.
“Michele Marcolini has Malta playing well and playing against Italy is always a strong motivation.”