After three rounds of matches, Serie A is going into it’s first international break of the season with the Italian national team set to play against Poland and Portugal in the Nations League. Manager Roberto Mancini hosted a press conference at Coverciano today where he was asked about the lack of Italian players on Serie A’s top teams and his decision to select young prospects:”The season finished well because of all the Azzurri players were playing. At the start of this season some are not starting but that will change. At this moment there aren’t many Italian players playing on a consistent basis. Because of this we have included many young players to increase the number of players so that we can get to know them better. Zaniolo was part of the Under 19 that reached the final of the European Cup. At 19 years old if you are good you have to be playing. In other leagues they aren’t afraid to play 18-19 year olds, we must have more courage”
Mancini was also asked about some of his midfielders:”Benassi can still improve a lot and is doing very well. He hasn’t played for all the national youth teams and will certainly be part of this team’s future. Pellegrini and Cristante played a lot last season. Now they aren’t playing so much, and this is why we should try out different things tactically. I’m confident they’ll play more as season progresses”
Mancini addressed Bernardeschi and Balotelli’s status as well as the goalkeeper position:”Bernardeschi has never played as part of a 3 man midfield until now, but it’s a solution I’m considering because he’s very versatile and effective. I will look at Balotelli’s condition, we have two games close to one another and we have to evaluate the physical condition of the lads. As regards to the goalkeeper positions, those who are playing have an advantage. We selected Cragno who is doing well. I haven’t spoken to Buffon lately. I hope Perin will be playing regularly soon
