Italy's Lineup for Euro 2024 Revealed: The Key Players and Strategies
The head coach of the Italian National Team, Luciano Spalletti, has presented his list of 26 players set to compete in Euro 2024 in Germany. Noteworthy inclusions are Argentine Mateo Retegui and Juventus defender Federico Gatti. Spalletti faces a challenging task as nine players from the Euro 2021 champion team will return, leaving room for new talent to shine.
The roster sees some significant exclusions, including Riccardo Orsolini, Samuele Ricci, and Ivan Provedel. Lazio’s goalkeeper Provedel will remain on standby in Rome as per UEFA regulations, which allow goalkeeper substitutions in case of injury or illness even after the tournament has begun. Defenders Francesco Acerbi and Giorgio Scalvini were also ruled out due to injuries.
Italy's journey to Euro 2024 was anything but smooth. Spalletti, having taken over the team last September, led Italy through a tricky qualifying phase. Despite twice being defeated by England, the team managed to secure their place in the competition by pulling off a crucial draw against Ukraine in their final qualifying game.
Captain Gianluigi Donnarumma will back the team's defensive core alongside seasoned defenders like Alessandro Bastoni and Giovanni Di Lorenzo. In midfield, Nicolo Barella, referred to as 'our Iniesta' by Gianfranco Zola, will be a key figure. Upfront, Gianluca Scamacca and Giacomo Raspadori will be sharing the number 9 position.
Spalletti's tactical preferences have evolved. Initially leaning towards a 4-3-3 formation during qualifying, he experimented with a 3-4-2-1 in friendly matches. Injuries to key players have prompted ongoing adjustments in Italy's defensive strategies. Options at right-winger have increased due to the absences of Zaniolo and Berardi, potentially opening opportunities for new talents.
Italy is set to open its Euro 2024 campaign against Albania in Dortmund on June 15. The team will face tough competition in Group B, where they are set to clash with strong contenders like Spain and Croatia.
- The tradition of wearing blue jerseys by the Italian national team dates back to 1911. It was a tribute to Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of unified Italy, whose family emblem—the House of Savoy—featured the Savoy cross circled in blue.
- Luciano Spalletti's tenure as head coach has been marked by ups and downs. His arrival brought renewed hope to the team, but the path to Euro 2024 qualification proved challenging. The team's resilience, however, has been evident, particularly in the latter stages of the qualifying rounds.
- Noted for his leadership qualities, 27-year-old Nicolo Barella has not only been pivotal for Inter Milan but also crucial for the national team. His contribution was highlighted when he captained the team in Donnarumma's absence against Ecuador and scored a decisive goal.
