Manager Gennaro Gattuso has expressed that “only an individual utterly devoid of feeling” would remain unperturbed as Italy endeavors to secure a World Cup qualification, a feat not achieved in 12 years.
Gattuso further declared that there would be “no justifications” should the Azzurri fall short of reaching a third successive finals, anticipating their crucial semi-final play-off encounter against Northern Ireland scheduled for Thursday.
Italy, victors of the 2006 trophy and the 2021 European Championship, are set to challenge Michael O’Neill’s squad in Bergamo. They are fully aware that triumphing in this match would lead them to confront either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina for a place in this summer’s competition.
Prior to the contest, Gattuso, a member of the victorious 2006 team, acknowledged the presence of apprehension among his players and coaching personnel.
“The existence of anxiety is unquestionable,” Gattuso remarked.
“Only an unfeeling person would not sense it. However, we must effectively convey considerable optimism.”
He further stated: “There are no pretexts.
“It is futile to ponder whether we could have performed better. Our sole focus must be Thursday’s fixture. Disregard our past achievements of four World Cups, two European Championships, and an Olympic gold. For us, the only match that matters is Thursday’s.
“Every athlete present here today comprehends the stakes and its profound significance.”
Federico Chiesa, a particular athlete, will be absent from the contest, having departed the squad on Monday.
Via an official announcement, the Italian Football Federation declared that the Liverpool player “was evaluated upon his arrival at the Federal Technical Centre and judged ineligible for the subsequent pair of games.
“By mutual consent with his club, he has departed the team. Bologna winger Nicolo Cambiaghi has been summoned as his substitute.”
Addressing Chiesa’s withdrawal, Gattuso stated: “From a bodily condition perspective, he experienced some difficulties, and we concluded that there was no benefit to his continued presence.”
Chiesa has not represented the international side for nearly two years, and in November he opted to reject an invitation to Gattuso’s squad.
“I am obligated to honor what the player communicates to me,” Gattuso remarked then.
“I frequently converse with him. We must abide by the determinations we make and the difficulties we encounter.
“We are well aware of what we share amongst ourselves, and I am bound to respect what the player informs me. I am unable to disclose more.”