With the clock ticking before the highly-expected Euro 2024 kick-off, Italy coach Luciano Spalletti announced his preliminary squad for the upcoming tournament. Out of 31 players on the initial list, 26 will remain on the final roster, scheduled to go public on June 6th.
Italy head Germany as the reigning holders after Roberto Mancini inspired Gli Azzurri to an iconic Euro 2020 triumph at Wembley. He left the reins in a safe pair of hands toward the end of last year, with Scudetto-winning manager Spalletti taking his place in the dugout.
After steering Napoli to their first Serie A title in 33 years, Spalletti has set his sights on continental glory. However, the 65-year-old has left Italy fans bamboozled with his squad announcement, sparking debate on social media over his competence to coach the two-time Euro winners.
Spalletti’s decision to omit Juventus stalwart Manuel Locatelli and include Nicolo Fagioli in his squad has proved a polarising subject. Despite the former’s underwhelming campaign, he has at least been a first-team regular at the Allianz Arena, unlike his clubmate.
In his defense, Fagioli’s long-term absence from competitive action had nothing to do with his footballing qualities. It was a consequence of his notorious off-field activities. But the youngster is back from an eight-month suspension for breaching betting rules and straight into the Italy national team, nonetheless.
Spalletti’s decision makes little sense, but the Italy coach knows what he’s doing. Showing support for Fagioli could turn the Juventus starlet into an unlikely tournament hero, while chances are Locatelli’s inclusion would not have added any extra quality to the squad.
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