Roberto Mancini, coach of the Italian national team, responded to the statements of former international striker Mario Balotelli, that the Azzurri national team does not lack the presence of strikers capable of shaking the nets of competitors, in a direct criticism of Mancini’s decision to summon Argentine striker Matteo Retigui.
Mancini also ignored the “unwarranted” controversy about Retigi’s lack of linguistic capabilities before facing Malta on Sunday in the European Nations Cup (Euro 2024) qualifiers in Germany.
Mancini defended the decision to call Retegui, who participated with the youth teams of Argentina, but had never represented the first team.
Balotelli (32 years old), the Sion striker, wrote on Saturday via the “Instagram” network to exchange photos: There are strikers in Italy and they are fully prepared, trust me.
Balotelli added: Regret is the feeling of those who do not usually learn the lessons, and understand the matter after the end, or may not understand it at all.
Mancini responded to the statements of Balotelli, whose last participation with the Italian national team dates back to 2018, by saying: What should I say to Mario? Happy with offensive options, I don’t know what he’s referring to, maybe he’s referring to himself? I love him so much, let’s hope he’s really ready.
Regarding Retigi’s inability to speak Italian fluently, Mancini said: This is another reason to be patient. He has been in Italy for three days, how can he speak Italian?
He noted: his grandfather knows Italian, it’s a pointless argument. When he knows Italian it will be easier for him.
