Oriali: Italy need unity and team spirit to scale through difficult spell

Italy team manager Gabriele Oriali has said the national team is going into ‘a difficult spell’ with the return of Roberto Mancini, highlighting what’s needed to achieve results.

The Azzurri havei already failed to qualify for the last two FIFA World Cups,despite winningn the trophy four times.

The Azzurri had their first training session on Monday at the Coverciano camp. The three-weekinternational break will see the AAzzurri play Belgium on Friday, then visit Turkiye on September 28 and France on October 2 in the Nations League.

After playing Vincenzo Montella’s side, the group concludes against France on November 12 and Belgium on November 15.

Mancini’s return also brings back team manager Oriali, as the pair’s relationship continues.

Admitting that it’s not the best moment for Italian football, he told Rai 2 in an interview that they are heading into a difficult spell and the lads need to recognize that too.

“ The important thing is for everyone to understand the moment, share it, have collective responsibility, respect and a little discipline, all of which never hurts,” he added.

He therefore calls on the players to find the team spirit and group togetherness that are needed to achieve results.

This is clearly shown by the Juventus ultras turning their backs on the pitch during a minute’s silence to remember Italy and Inter legend Sandro Mazzola.

“I remember the first training sessions at the Pinetina; Mazzola was one of those who welcomed me with open arms.

“He gave me a lift home one day after training; people couldn’t believe it when they saw him. I have only fond memories of him as a teammate and a person, without forgetting he was also a great director who brought Ronaldo to Serie A,” the former Inter player explained further.

He described such behavior as an ugly image, hoping these people can be identified and removed from the stadium.