Italy returns to the international stage after a three-year absence since their triumph at the last Euros. The nation’s footballing future is in the hands of manager Luciano Spalletti, tasked with guiding them out of their soul-searching period.
Spalletti’s appointment takes Italy back to the scene of their greatest footballing triumph—the 2006 World Cup victory. A golden generation of players, including Gianluigi Buffon, Francesco Totti, and Andrea Pirlo, achieved glory. Since then, the national team has struggled to find its identity, unsure of its place in the global game.
Even the thrilling 2021 Euros victory, which turned the team into national heroes, was a surprise to supporters accustomed to mediocrity. The heroes of Wembley, who beat England on their home turf, have largely been replaced by Spalletti after failing to qualify for the World Cup.
A younger generation now aims to rebuild Italy’s reputation. Spalletti emphasizes the need for “new incentives, new blood, and people willing to step up.” He selects players who are ready to take on the challenge and responsibility of representing their country.
Only five players from the Euros-winning team were included in Spalletti’s initial 30-man squad, which will be reduced to 26. Age caught up with some notable absentees, while others, like Lorenzo Insigne, have simply fallen out of favor.
Spalletti’s decision to leave Manuel Locatelli, a star of the Euros, out of the squad surprised fans. This led to Locatelli’s dismayed Instagram post. Meanwhile, his Juventus teammate Nicolo Fagioli, who faced a gambling ban, earned a call-up despite limited playing time this season.
Fagioli, determined to represent his country, acknowledges the challenges he faced during his ban. Nearly half of Spalletti’s initial squad has limited international experience, with many having fewer than 10 caps for Italy.
Spalletti, a star in his own right, led Napoli to a historic Serie A title. He took on the Italy job after Roberto Mancini’s departure, confidently guiding the team towards qualification and giving fans hope for a dramatic summer.
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