As the Euros come to a thrilling climax, the fortunes of Italy have changed quiet dramatically. In 2018 Roberto Mancini was given the responsibility to change around the national team’s fortunes.
Having failed to qualify for the 2018 World Cup, Italy turned to the former Manchester City manager, and what a turnaround it has been. In the three years that have passed Mancini has turned a side from no hopers into potential winners.
Mancini, the man who has turned around Italy’s fortunes
He has engineered a side who celebrated as much for their attacks as their exceptional defence. In every department, Mancini’s team seem determined for the good times to come back to Italian football.
Based on a solid defence which until recently hadn’t conceded a goal for over 900 minutes. This Italian side has now gone an incredible 33 matches unbeaten. In anybody’s language that has to be some record.
Chiellini, continues to defy his critics
Led by the ever green Giorgio Chiellini, who has matured with age, yet still only 36. A rock at the back with his motto being thou shall not pass says everything about this Italian unit.
Leonardo Bonucci epitomises everything about this group of players. Every single one of them have the heart and determination and ability to push on. Despite only conceding three goals at Euro 2020 thus far the Italians have unearthed a gem in Gianluigi Donnarumma. The 22 year-old has looked exceptional between the sticks. Currently a free agent after being released by Serie A club Milan, there will be plenty of bidders requiring his services.
In attack Italy have found a goalscorer in Federico Chiesa. The Juventus winger has been a star for the men in blue in the tournament. Alongside the likes of Ciro Immobile and Lorenzo Insigne, Italy have proved they can score goals as well.
But the real reason Italy are showing signs of getting back to the force they once were, is down to Mancini. His managerial style is second to none and is a guy who can get the best out of a group of players. He has bought together this talented group of players and gelled them together as a family.
Mancini has proved in the past what a fine manager he is. Having won the Premiership with Manchester City in 2012, and Serie A three times with Inter Milan, that’s proof of a class act.
The Italians coach’s role is always one that is under the spotlight. But in Mancini it looks at last they have found a man that can lead Italian football to success for a long time to come.