Former Italian striker Gianfranco Zola insists he was ‘lucky’ to play with Roberto Baggio, Gianluca Vialli and Roberto Mancini and praises Paulo Dybala for staying at Roma: ‘He listened to his heart, not his wallet.’
Zola released an interview with Il Corriere dello Sport discussing Italy’s national team, Victor Osimhen and Paulo Dybala.
The Azzurri promptly reacted to a disappointing EURO 2024 elimination last summer, securing back-to-back victories against France and Israel during the September break.
“The national team was excellent in terms of personality, the ability of new players to settle in and how they reacted to Barcola’s goal. However, it’s just the beginning of a long journey,” said Zola.
“The problem is that the rebirth of the national team is not only down to Spalletti, the federal directors, or the players. It’s about the entire Italian football movement. We must be able to raise young talents and provide more continuity to the movement. Otherwise, nothing will follow the win against France.”
Zola: ‘Lucky to play with Baggio and Vialli’, one difference between Dybala and Osimhen decisions
Zola scored ten goals in 35 appearances with Italy’s national team, but some believe he was unlucky to play for the Azzurri at the wrong time, given that many other stars were part of the team in those years.
“It’s not true. I was lucky to play with Baggio, Vialli, Mancini and others,” the ex-Chelsea forward insisted.
“I learned something from all of them, and their example pushed me to raise the bar.”
Zola is convinced that his former club, Napoli, coached by Antonio Conte, will be Inter’s main rivals in the Scudetto race this season.
“I know Antonio well; believe me, nothing should be taken for granted when Conte is involved. Napoli will be in the race until the end,” he said.
“There is more competition than last season. Give Gasperini time, and Atalanta will emerge. Milan has had highs and lows, but they have a great team.”
Lastly, Zola spoke about the transfer sagas involving Dybala and Osimhen this summer. The Argentinean decided to stay at Roma despite a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia, while Osi pushed to leave Napoli and eventually joined Galatasaray on loan after talks with Al-Ahli, Chelsea, and PSG collapsed.
“One is a nice story, but the other is not so good,” argued Zola.
“Dybala listened to his heart, not his wallet. I don’t want to judge anyone; everyone can make their best decisions. Indeed, Paulo’s history fills the hearts of those who love football.”