The former coach analyzed the performance of the Italian national team in Euro 2024.
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Fabio Capello, a legendary figure in Italian football, analyzed the performance of the Italian national team in Euro 2024 in the newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport.
"Italy is too slow with the ball, but the fault lies with Serie A. Our league is full of horizontal passes and time-wasting. The performance we saw against Croatia will not be enough against Switzerland [their opponent in the round of 16], but Spalletti knows what to do. It will be necessary to show speed, quality, and the best of Chiesa," said the former coach, now 78 years old.
Capello, renowned for his tactical acumen and successful coaching career, emphasized the need for a more dynamic approach. He pointed out that the Italian team's sluggish ball movement could be attributed to the playing style prevalent in Serie A, where there is an over-reliance on lateral passes and a tendency to waste time. According to Capello, this approach hampers the national team's ability to compete at the highest level in international tournaments.
It should be noted that Italy finished second in Group B of the current edition of the European Championship, with four points, behind leaders Spain (nine points) and ahead of Croatia (two) and Albania (one). Mattia Zaccagni's last-gasp goal, which secured a draw against the Croatian team (1-1), ultimately saved the "Azzurri" in the third match of the group stage.
Capello also highlighted the importance of key players stepping up in crucial matches. He singled out Federico Chiesa, urging the winger to deliver his best performance against Switzerland. Chiesa's pace, creativity, and goal-scoring ability could prove decisive for Italy's chances in the knockout stages.
Italy's journey in Euro 2024 has been a roller-coaster ride, with moments of brilliance interspersed with periods of inconsistency. The team's defensive solidity, combined with tactical discipline, has been commendable, but the lack of offensive fluidity remains a concern. Capello's insights reflect a broader critique of Italian football, calling for modernization and adaptation to the fast-paced, high-intensity demands of international competition.
As Italy prepares to face Switzerland in the round of 16, the pressure is on coach Luciano Spalletti to address these issues and implement strategies that leverage the team's strengths while mitigating its weaknesses. The upcoming match will be a test of Italy's resilience and tactical flexibility, as they aim to advance further in the tournament and restore their reputation as a formidable force in European football.
