Belgium coach Domenico Tedesco confirms why Romelu Lukaku is not in the squad, hints Charles De Ketelaere could start in the Nations League and ‘cannot disguise’ the love for Italy.
It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico on Thursday at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT).
The Azzurri won the first two Nations League games against France and Israel, so sit at the top of the group, whereas Belgium are joint second with France on three points.
While Kevin de Bruyne, Amadou Onana and Roma winger Alexis Saelemaekers are injured, Napoli striker Romelu Lukaku asked to be left behind to work on his fitness.
“Every game is important, we are missing a few players and had to call in some youngsters, so it is good to develop them, but we also have to be concentrated on the result,” said Tedesco in his press conference.
“Lukaku decided not to be here, but he could be back in November. I understand his decision, as he moved late to Napoli and missed pre-season training, so he’s not in top shape. There’s no problem, we are concentrated on the players who are available.”
Tedesco rebuilding Belgium
While Italy disappointed at EURO 2024, the same could easily be said of Belgium and it is something that Tedesco is ready to admit.
“We tried to turn the page as quickly as possible from the Euros, which were a let-down. We faced teams who on paper seemed to be inferior, but proved they could fight it out.”
Seeing as Luciano Spalletti transformed his tactics as a reaction to that tournament, is Tedesco tempted to do the same?
“We played with a four-man defence over the last two years, then five in Austria, but I generally think the tactical system depends on the players at your disposal and the type of game we want to play.
“Italy changed to a 3-5-2 or 3-4-3, but this is not completely new, as they had this system against Croatia in the Euros too. They try to spread the play to the wing-backs, do a lot of cross-field passes and fill the penalty area with a lot of players. They’re in a positive period of form.”
Tedesco was born in Italy and moved to Germany as a baby with his family, so when the Nations League draw was made, he confessed it was a dream to face the Azzurri. Would it also be an ambition to work in Serie A?
“This is not the right time to talk about me and my dreams. We’re focused on this game, it will be a great atmosphere. I cannot disguise my love for Italy and it is my first time against the Nazionale.”
Charles De Ketelaere is impressing with Atalanta and won the Europa League last season, so will he get a chance to start?
“I do think he deserves a chance, as he is doing very well with Atalanta and can have an important role for us. We also changed after the Euros because we wanted to get to know other players who were available,” confirmed Tedesco.
“I realise you want to often ask me about the past, but there are clear reasons why many are not here. I also have no doubts over the quality of those who are here. We must use our style, without being naïve, both when defending and attacking. These are the games that get you up in the morning.”