Because of BVB game time? Inacio’s explanation raises eyebrows | OneFootball

Too little playing time at his own club as the main reason for being left out of the national team? That is exactly what a recent statement from Italy’s national coach suggests.

Italy coach Roberto Mancini has explained why he has so far left out Samuele Inacio. Speaking to “Sky Sport” at the press conference, the national coach made it clear that, alongside the attacker’s young age, one factor in particular is decisive: his lack of match practice at Borussia Dortmund. Roberto Mancini stated plainly: “He has played very few games so far.” That remark in particular stands out, because it puts his playing time at BVB directly at the center of the explanation.

Roberto Mancini did also emphasize the young age of the 18-year-old: “He is young, he has to keep developing.” By that, the national coach meant that Samuele Inacio first needs more time training with the Italian team in order to get used to the level of the senior national side. At its core, however, the decisive issue remains his lack of playing time at club level. Even so, Roberto Mancini made it clear that he is convinced of the youngster’s abilities, assuring: “But you have to give him time.”

A look at the past few weeks at Borussia Dortmund confirms exactly that picture. After his appearance in the Super Cup against Bayern Munich, Samuele Inacio saw a straight red card against HSV and therefore had to sit out two Bundesliga matches. He did impress in the DFB-Pokal against HEBC with a brace, but in both the Champions League and the first match after serving his suspension, coach Niko Kovač kept him on the bench. That limited playing time now also appears to be affecting squad planning for the Italian national team.

BVB talent Samuele Inacio left out by Italy

For Samuele Inacio, this means that he is missing from the Squadra Azzurra squad for the third time in a row. He had already been left out against Belgium and Turkey, and this pattern was confirmed once again against the 2018 world champions. This development is particularly bitter for the attacker because he had actually wanted to commit himself to Italy for good during this international break. Due to his dual citizenship, he could theoretically still play for Brazil as long as he has not featured in a competitive match for the Squadra Azzurra. So far, he has only made one friendly appearance. His last opportunity during this international break will come next Monday, October 5, against Turkey.

Photo: IMAGO

Roberto Mancini’s explanation at least gives Samuele Inacio a clear message: more playing time at Borussia Dortmund is likely to be the key to establishing himself in the national team as well in the future. Until then, the youngster has no choice but to wait patiently for his chance — both at BVB and in Italy’s shirt.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.