Giampiero Ventura admits Italy-Spain is “the most important match of my career” and is looking forward to Alessio Romagnoli’s debut.
It kicks off in Turin at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT), follow the build-up and action on the LIVEBLOG.
These sides meet again three months after Italy’s 2-0 victory in the Euro 2016 Round of 16.
Giampiero Ventura admits Italy-Spain is “the most important match of my career” and is looking forward to Alessio Romagnoli’s debut.
It kicks off in Turin at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT), follow the build-up and action on the LIVEBLOG.
These sides meet again three months after Italy’s 2-0 victory in the Euro 2016 Round of 16.
“Is it the most important match of my career? I think so, yes,” the Coach told Rai Sport. “In media terms tonight’s game has a notable resonance for my football history.
“Spain are now a quicker and more aggressive side compared to at Euro 2016, so we cannot compare the two.”
As Giorgio Chiellini is suspended, Milan defender Romagnoli is given his senior Italy debut.
“Italy is a strange country – you get blamed for not picking young players, then they say you’re crazy for playing them. I hope he can be a protagonist, just as Leo Bonucci was when I gave him his debut.
“After the friendly with France, we had four days to prepare and play in Israel. This time around we have only three days before we play the next match in Macedonia. That means we must deal with the little knocks carried by various players.
“I am very happy to be at the Juventus Stadium because Italy have never lost here.”