Gattuso on Estonia and Israel: Why I picked Spinazzola… | OneFootball

The Italian national team has gathered in Coverciano ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifying matches against Estonia (October 11) and Israel (October 14).

Italy, Gattuso presents the challenges against Estonia and Israel: "Here's why I chose Spinazzola..."

The Azzurri, currently second in Group I, are chasing the top spot occupied by Norway, but the goal difference is significantly in favor of the Norwegians.

Below, all the statements by Gennaro Gattuso during the press conference.

Zaccagni and Politano Out: The Choices of the Coach

On the absence of Zaccagni and Politano, Gattuso stated: "The choices were made because in the first match we will play in one way and in the other in another. I'm sorry for the players we have lost, but others have arrived who can help us. Decisions were made thinking about these games."

Ahanor and Tresoldi: Young Promises to Monitor

About young talents like Ahanor and Tresoldi, the coach explained: "We have been talking about them for a while. They are players who have the opportunity to wear the Azzurri jersey and we are working on it. We will see if something can be done."

Milan-Como in Australia and the Role of Coach

About the recent Milan-Como match in Australia and his role as coach: "This is modern football. There are significant figures at stake and it is right that the clubs consider them. Me as a coach? The pressures are many, I really like it and I don't get bored. I thought I might get bored without the field every day, but that's not the case. I hope to always have this enthusiasm."

Federico Chiesa and the Non-Call Up

About Chiesa, excluded from the call-up list: "It's the line I have with everyone. With Federico there is a long chat, he knows what I think of him, but we must also respect what the player says. He doesn't feel one hundred percent and he has to solve some problems. There is no case or secret."

Three-Man Defense and Team Condition

About the three-man formation: "The boys are much better than a month ago. About the three-man defense? A coach must be good at doing everything, my ego has to be put aside. I don't like it, but what matters is choosing the best formation for the team."

About the condition of the attackers: "The numbers say they are fine, even in terms of smiles. Then we will see how they are athletically."

Raspadori, Nicolussi Caviglia and Cambiaghi

About Raspadori as a winger against Atletico: "I had used him there too, the external pairs are him and Cambiaghi."

About the call-ups of Nicolussi Caviglia and Cambiaghi: "Cambiaghi does well in both phases, Nicolussi provides balance and quality as a low vertex. I was curious to see him."

Scouting and Turnover

About the scouting work: "We travel a lot, I also make the federation spend a bit of money to see as many matches as possible. When you see interesting things you have to reward. It's a pity that someone stayed at home, but the doors of the National team remain open. If there is someone to reward, we will do it."

About the turnover in the two matches: "We have to focus on our work and do well. Outside there is not a good air, but we have to think about ourselves. Change a lot? We will see, in the meantime we think about Estonia."

The Environment and Aspects to Improve

About the atmosphere and necessary improvements: "I was referring to the environment that is outside. On Tuesday in Udine there will be few people. It's a pity to see certain situations with innocent and suffering children. We have to go to the World Cup and give everything. Corrections? We need to improve in sniffing out danger and not taking anything for granted."

About Moise Kean: "I told him that he has to give something more, because he is an important player. We need his characteristics and his desire."

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