Inter Milan Wing-Back Demands Italy Be ‘Mentally Strong’ In World Cup Play-Off Against Bosnia & Hails Teammate As ‘Truly Special’ | OneFootball

Federico Dimarco has called on Italy to be mentally resilient above all else in Tuesday’s World Cup play-off final against Bosnia, while delivering a glowing tribute to Inter Milan teammate Pio Esposito that underlines just how highly the young striker is regarded within the national team camp.

The Inter wing-back spoke at a press conference at Coverciano ahead of the crucial fixture, addressing the tactical challenge Bosnia present and offering a candid take on what Italy need to do to secure their place at the World Cup.

On the mindset required for the match, Dimarco was clear, with quotes via FCInterNews.

“We must be mentally strong above all. If we are strong in the head we will bring home the result.”

He expanded on the point when asked whether legs or mentality matter more.

“It is the head that commands the legs. We know we face a very strong team, one with several players from our league. We will need to be good in every aspect.”

Dimarco Heaps Praise On ‘Truly Special’ Inter & Italy Teammate Pio Esposito

When the conversation turned to Esposito, Dimarco was warm and protective in equal measure.

“Pio is a truly special boy, even for his age he is already ahead mentally,” he said.

“It is genuinely difficult to get angry with him. He always gives 100% in matches and in training. That demonstrates his growth over these six or seven months.”

On the pressure the teenager faces, Dimarco was careful.

“There are few pieces of advice to give him, because it is pointless adding more pressure to him.”

He made clear, however, that the final call belongs to Gattuso.

“Pio is in this group because he deserves it. It is the coach who must decide whether he will play or not.”

On his own form and that of his Inter teammates in the national squad, Dimarco was pragmatic.

“During a season you cannot always be at 100%. The important thing is to always give everything. If you go on the pitch and give your maximum, you have nothing to reproach yourself for.”