Italy enters the Euros as defending champions. However, according to GOAL’s analysis, the team lacks experienced defenders, dependable forwards, has been affected by injuries and scandals, making them the second weakest defending champions in Euros history after Greece.
As the manager of the defending champions, Spalletti acknowledges that Italy wasn’t the strongest on paper in 2021 but still won the title. He implies that despite not being on par with favorites like France, Germany, or England this time, Italy still possesses the capability to retain their crown.
Nonetheless, GOAL argues that unlike the previous Euros when Italy remained healthy throughout, the current squad under Spalletti is not in the same condition. Furthermore, after their Euro victory, Italy was considered a favorite for the 2022 World Cup but failed to qualify, losing to North Macedonia in the playoffs.
Following Mancini’s resignation to coach in Saudi Arabia, Italy found itself in disarray, coinciding with the start of the UEFA qualifiers. Fortunately, Spalletti stepped up from Napoli to voluntarily take charge of the national team. Italy only advanced to the finals as group runners-up, and under Spalletti, they lack seasoned defenders, with Chiellini and Bonucci having retired.
The retirement of veterans, coupled with injuries, particularly affects the team. Verratti is also in a semi-retirement phase. Moreover, Italy lacks top-class strikers, not even possessing a player of Immobile’s caliber.
Additionally, Italy is entangled in various controversies, with Tonali’s suspension further weakening the squad. Despite Spalletti’s proven coaching abilities, the team’s lack of matching talent works against them.