Toronto FC winger Federico Bernardeschi predicts 4 Italy gamers who could make the distinction towards Spain and defends his former Juventus teammate Alvaro Morata: ‘It’s loopy to criticise him.’
Bernardeschi, a EURO 2020 winner with Italy, previewed Thursday’s group stage recreation between Italy and Spain in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport.
The Azzurri beat Spain on penalties within the semifinals within the final version of the European Championship.
“It was magnificent, even whether it is most likely probably the most troublesome match I’ve ever performed,” stated Bernardeschi.
“Spain have been actually sturdy, identical to now, and we have been accustomed to having management of video games, so we struggled. Nevertheless, we have been capable of adapt, defend with a low block, and canopy the area for his or her late runs. The Italian satisfaction and the spirit of sacrifice did the remainder. I hope the identical spirit emerges this time. Spain is a tricky facet, however we aren’t weaker.”
Does he nonetheless speak to the members of that profitable Italy workforce?
“All of them as a result of we nonetheless have a WhatsApp chat,” he stated.
“It’s a marvellous factor. As Gianluca Vialli used to say: ‘As soon as an Azzurro, eternally an Azzurro.’ This proves how a lot the jersey weighs. The European title will unite us eternally.”
The group’s unity was key to profitable the trophy three years in the past. Does he see the identical perspective on this workforce?
“Completely, I see constructive alerts,” the ex-Juventus and Fiorentina winger replied.
“Italy works miracles after we discover the suitable alchemy. Some movies they’ve despatched me make me assume they’re creating it. They need to work and have enjoyable.”
Bernardeschi predicts 4 key Italy gamers towards Spain
So, what is going to Italy have to beat Spain and go all the way in which till the top of the match?
“We’d like extra shallowness. We’re accustomed to others, however we must always have extra confidence. I hear about Italian soccer struggling, however I don’t see that. We received the Euros, many groups reached European Finals and Atalanta received the Europa League. We aren’t that unhealthy.”
Which gamers could make the distinction towards La Roja? Is Federico Chiesa amongst them?
“I at all times anticipate it from Fede, however I feel the midfield might be key. Barella and Jorginho should defend and Spain can battle towards Frattesi’s late runs.”
Gigi Buffon has had an important position off the sector as Italy’s delegation chief.
“Buffon is Buffon. Simply the identify is a certainty,” famous Bernardeschi.
“He’s as necessary as Vialli for us. Any recommendation could make a distinction. One like him helps all perceive the moments. Lough and joke when it’s applicable and work onerous when it’s time to take action. Buffon is aware of the significance of the jersey and is aware of how you can move on this sense.”
However, Spain followers have been important of one other former teammate of Bernardeschi, ex-Juventus star Morata.
“He’s been unfairly criticised regardless of being a top-class participant. He’s 31, he’s the Spain captain and he’s received a lot. It’s loopy to criticise him. Take note of him and Yamal. If he’s there at 16, it implies that he belongs to a unique class.”
The place can Italy get on this match?
“I don’t wish to make predictions, however I solely inform the blokes to take pleasure in this marvellous journey with out setting limits for themselves,” concluded Bernardeschi.
“I consider that conceding that we are going to profit from conceding that early aim towards Albania. We made foolish errors within the pre-tournament friendlies, and it’ll assist us elevate the eye degree.”
