Spalletti Denies Pact With Players Over Italy's Euro 2024 Formation

Luciano Spalletti was incensed by claims that a pact with his players led to Italy's switch to a 3-5-2 formation in their draw against Croatia. This result allowed them to advance to the last 16 at Euro 2024. Italy, the defending champions, had a mixed performance in Group B, with a win over Albania and a loss to Spain.

Reports in the Italian media suggested Spalletti abandoned his preferred 4-3-3 setup for a 3-5-2 formation at his players' request. The former Napoli manager was visibly upset when questioned about these rumours during his post-match press conference. "In my opinion, this is what you were told," Spalletti said, before asking the reporter's age. "You're 51, you still have 14 years before you get to 65 like me."

Luka Modric scored for Croatia, becoming the oldest goalscorer in Euros history at 38 years and 289 days. His goal put Italy on the brink of finishing third in their group, which would have left them relying on other results to qualify. However, Mattia Zaccagni came off the bench to score a stunning equaliser after 97 minutes and 19 seconds, making it the second-latest goal in Euros history (excluding extra time).

Spalletti expressed frustration over leaks from within the Italy camp regarding his discussions with players. "Don't claim this is your poetic licence; this is just a weakness of those who leak things," he stated. He emphasised that there is an internal environment and an external one, and leaking information harms the national team.

Despite attempting more than twice as many shots as Croatia (13 to six), Italy only managed to hit the target three times and lost the expected goals (xG) battle, 1.49-0.98. Spalletti defended his decision-making process by highlighting his experience and qualifications: "I did my thesis at Coverciano on 3-5-2. I'll let you see it later."

Italy will now face Switzerland for a quarter-final spot on Saturday. However, their performances have not been universally welcomed back home. The Italian media has been critical of their tactics and overall play.

Spalletti's Response to Criticism

When asked if he feared failing at his first major tournament, Spalletti responded confidently: "Am I afraid? What am I afraid of? If I was afraid, I would have just come here like you guys to watch the games." He added that he knows many people who would have given him free tickets if he chose not to coach.

"It's only natural that there's pressure," Spalletti continued, "but we go out there to play." His comments reflect his determination and belief in his team's ability to perform under pressure despite recent criticisms.

The Italian squad's journey through Euro 2024 has been challenging but filled with moments of resilience. As they prepare for their next match against Switzerland, all eyes will be on how they adapt and respond to both internal and external pressures.