Italy face Romania today in a friendly at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara in Bologna. Azzurri coach Antonio Conte spoke to RAI Sport and we translated the full interview here.
After today’s match, only two friendlies will remain versus Germany and Spain.
“We have three friendlies left, it’s a shame to play this evening and then only see each other again in four months, it makes me angry. Having the chance to meet the players once a month helped to give continuity to our work and you see the results of this on the pitch. It helped build a team identity, a team that wants to play and do well for the fans.”
“There are 4-5 big teams ahead of us. Certainly we are not the favourites by the odds makers without any doubt. However this shouldn’t scare us. This should give us even more incentive. We still have room to grow and improve. We have to believe we can perform at the same level like the big teams. I am convinced we can make life difficult for everyone.”
Are you starting to feel this is your team?
“Yes! In a way I really feel this is my team now. I was reminded of my outburst a year ago after the match against Albania (note: Conte stated at that time “Our football is not going on the right path. The players must find the will to work hard.”)
“I have to say I needed a bit of time, it is different to coach the national team than to coach a club. As I was used to being a club coach, there was an adaptation time required on my part. I feel happy and if I would go back, I would make the same decision.”
Objectives for the Euro
“Make the semi-finals at the Euro? It would be a great achievement, but why not the final? A result like this would help me to make the right choice on my contract. ”
Stadium security
Given what transpired the other day in Paris with the terrorist attacks, enhanced security measures will make the Dall’Ara stadium virtually bulletproof.
Formation and probable starting XI:
Conte announced yesterday he plans to use a 4-4-2 formation with Eder and Pelle up front. In the midfield, with Pirlo and Verratti out, look for Soriano and Marchisio to take their place and Florenzi and El Shaarawy on the flanks. Buffon will be in goal and should have the Juve trio of Barzagli, Bonucci and Chiellini along with Darmian in front of him.
Two familiar faces will play for Romania, Tatarasanu (Fiorentina) and Chiriches (Napoli).
ITALY (4-4-2): Buffon; Darmian, Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Florenzi, Marchisio, Soriano, El Shaarawy; Pellè, Eder
ROMANIA (4-2-3-1): Tatarusanu; Sapunaru, Chiriches, Grigore, Rat; Pintilii, Hoban; Torje, Sanmartean, Maxim; Stancu. All: Iordanescu
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