During Gian Piero Ventura’s press conference on Wednesday, the experienced tactician was positive when addressing the Azzurri’s future, insisting that they do know what is needed to succeed: “During my first press conference as Italy coach, I had said that there was an abundance of youth available. Today we know the requirements needed to achieve something important.” Ventura was speaking following the conclusion of the second training camp for promising youngsters.
A total of 22 players trained for two days at Coverciano, which notably included a total of 10 new faces in comparison to the first camp. Overall, the coach was satisfied, although he was quick to avoid making predictions about who will be selected for Italy’s matches in March: “We have a month available to us and we hope that positive things can happen. Our objective at the start was to introduce five or six elements to this group, and if we achieved this then it would have been a success. Today we know that we have an Italy team for the future, but it is difficult to say who will be present in March.”
Ventura was also keen to single out various individuals for praise: “Gagliardini surprised me less than others. I selected him before everyone else was talking about him. He has great potential. As for Verratti, I always wish him the best as we need him. He is the future of this Italy team and he has the ability to determine the outcome of every game. Despite his young age, he has been put through a few changes, however if he is in good condition then he is influential. I have never doubted him, the problem is to stay fit and avoid injuries. In regard to Pelle, he has had his chances. The doors are open for everyone, but we have taken a path focused on rejuvenation.”
On 24th March, the Azzurri will take on Di Biasi’s Albania at the Stadio Renzo Barbera in Palermo, in what will be a crucial game in terms of qualifying for the 2018 World Cup. Ventura is more than aware of this fact, calling upon the public to show their support: “They have told me that Palermo never disappoints. It is a city that loves football and loves the national team. I hope that they do not disappoint this year, as they are hosting two fundamental matches. One against Albania and the other against Israel, the game against Spain is a thing apart. During the matches we need the support of our fans. If it is difficult to play in certain stadiums, then I hope that it is also tough for other national teams to play on our turf.”
Source: figc.it