Bastoni and Pio Esposito Praised in Italy's Squad, Barella Falls Short
Alessandro Bastoni and Pio Esposito, both Inter Milan players, featured for Italy in the initial four matches under new coach Roberto Mancini. In their review of the recent international break, La Gazzetta dello Sport highlighted the defender, who scored against Turkey and France, and
Alessandro Bastoni and Pio Esposito, both Inter Milan players, featured for Italy in the initial four matches under new coach Roberto Mancini. In their review of the recent international break, La Gazzetta dello Sport highlighted the defender, who scored against Turkey and France, and the young forward, now with seven national team goals. The newspaper's assessment of the striker read: "His presence is felt, and when he needs to catch his breath, it's (almost) more noticeable. A case in point? Scamacca scored against Turkey, but the team didn't flow as well as it did with Pio on the field."
Bastoni also earned a positive mention: "Shaking off the burden of a red card from the shocking night in Zenica is no small feat, and he's managing it, although he shouldn't carry that weight alone. The burden feels lighter." Barella, however, was given a less favorable rating: "To start, his attitude and words are those of a leader. To conclude, this was not his moment as the national team seeks its most logical and effective path."
Bastoni and Pio Esposito Praised in Italy's Squad, Barella Falls Short
Inter Milan's Alessandro Bastoni and Pio Esposito were among the Italian national team players evaluated after the first four games under coach Roberto Mancini. La Gazzetta dello Sport's review noted the defender, who found the net against Turkey and France, and the forward, now with seven goals for the national team, with commendation. The publication stated regarding the forward: "His impact is clear when he plays; when he needs to rest, that absence is (almost) felt even more. For example, with Turkey, Scamacca scored, but the team's rhythm changed when Pio entered the game."
Bastoni also received a positive mark: "Overcoming the pressure of a red card from the difficult match in Zenica is a significant achievement, and he's handling it, though the responsibility shouldn't rest solely on him. The load feels less heavy." Barella, conversely, was rated as not having had his best period: "His attitude and statements suggest leadership. However, it wasn't his standout moment as the national team searched for its optimal direction."
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