Spalletti Praises Italy’s Collective Spirit

Italy’s head coach Luciano Spalletti credited teamwork as the key to the Azzurri’s success in League A Group 2 of the UEFA Nations League. Italy aims to clinch the group’s top spot against France on Sunday at the San Siro.

Italy secured their place in the knockout stages, starting in March, with a 1-0 win over Belgium on Thursday. Meanwhile, France’s goalless draw with Israel means Italy needs just a point to secure the top spot. Even a loss could suffice, depending on other results.

“Credit goes not just to me but to all the players,” Spalletti said on Saturday, as quoted by the British agency PA Media. “Even those who came off the bench or didn’t play contributed during the match against Belgium. The collective effort is our strength.”

Spalletti emphasized the importance of showing appreciation for the players. “At this moment, more than winning, we need to make the players feel valued. Results often stem from that,” he said.

“We must approach the game without overthinking or making calculations,” Spalletti added during a press conference. “A draw can only happen if neither team can find a way to win. France will undoubtedly give everything to secure a victory.”

Italy’s goalkeeper and captain Gianluigi Donnarumma also weighed in: “France didn’t get the result they wanted in their last match, so they’ll come into this one full of determination and anger.”