Davide Frattesi is delighted that Roberto Mancini has returned as the manager of the Italy national team for his second spell.

Mancini led the Azzurrii to successatn Euro 2020, only to fail to qualify for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Frattesi, who scored his first Italy goal in 2023 during Mancini’s last game, said they should be looking further ahead.

Frattesi added at a press conference at Coverciano that it’s important to get results as the games get harder.

While noting that something special can be done only by making mistakes along the way, the former Inter Milan midfielder said the new players in the squad have quality, expressing belief that they’ll help the squad to grow.

“The truth is, these [the reasons for Mancini’s exit in 2023] aren’t really our business, and I don’t think anyone should be blamed either. People talk, but I’d like to see how many people wouldn’t have done the same thing. The talk means nothing, and we’re all absolutely delighted to have him back with us.

“We’re starting to build something nice. A lot of them are new, and it’s up to us to help them settle in, but I’ve seen players with quality who I believe will give us a hand,” he added.

Mancini will be presented with a strong test on his return as the Azzurri battle Belgium in the UEFA Nations League.

While noting the good qualities of the young lads in the squad, Frattesi said Belgium have changed coaches, so they still don’t know what to expect 

Former Dutch midfielder Mark Van Bommel took over the role after his stint with Belgian side Antwerp.

While revealing that the squad has already watched a few Antwerp games, the former Sassuolo midfielder admitted it will be a difficult, open game at the Stadio Olimpico.

Attendance is expected to be higher than during Lazio home games, as fans are still boycotting president Claudio Lotito.

Separating the two things, he said it will be a great atmosphere for football.