The manager of Italy, Luciano Spalletti, has offered his analysis on the team’s performance in the recent 1-0 triumph over Bosnia and Herzegovina, drawing attention to both the positives and areas requiring development as they ready themselves for EURO 2024. The team’s proficiency in executing precise passes and their tactics in pressing the opposition are among the primary concerns.
Following a 0-0 draw with Turkey, Spalletti implemented a tactical adjustment from a 4-2-3-1 to a 3-4-2-1 formation, which proved successful as Davide Frattesi netted a goal with an acrobatic volley, and Gianluca Scamacca generated multiple goal-scoring opportunities. The team also employed a dual playmaker approach, with Jorginho and Nicolò Fagioli commencing play together in midfield.
Spalletti acknowledged the team’s capability to maneuver the ball with finesse in confined areas but expressed remorse over the team’s failure to aggressively press the opposition, thereby allowing them excessive possession.
The manager also singled out individual players for commendation and critique. While praising Alessandro Buongiorno for his defensive contributions, he emphasized the necessity for better decision-making and urged the team to initiate more plays from the defensive line. Additionally, Spalletti highlighted the team’s overall lack of vigour, as well as subpar passing and ineffectiveness in countering their opponents’ press.
Despite the team’s commendable performance, Spalletti underscored the requirement for improvement and consistency, asserting that more efficient passing and effective utilization of space would be pivotal going forward.
Spalletti also addressed positional issues within the team, specifically reprimanding Federico Chiesa for venturing too far wide on the left and stressing the importance of him assuming a more central position to maximize his potential.
Looking ahead to EURO 2024, Spalletti reiterated his faith in the squad’s abilities while underscoring the necessity to transition into a tournament mindset. He elucidated that the team had employed varied formations and tactics in their recent friendly matches to address areas of improvement, as they gear up to confront Albania, Spain, and Croatia in the impending tournament.
As Italy continues to refine their strategies and rectify their weaknesses, Spalletti’s insights offer valuable guidance for the team’s preparations, ensuring they can make a strong impact at EURO 2024.