World Cup flops ‘left a mark’ on Italy Euro winner | OneFootball

Lorenzo Insigne admits he still thinks about Italy’s World Cup flops in 2018 and 2022, but jokes that ‘he will retire’ if he secures Serie B survival with Pescara and plays in the World Cup next summer.

Insigne was part of the Italy squad that failed to secure World Cup qualification in 2018 and 2022.

He remained on the bench in a play-off second leg tie against Sweden in November 2017, but was involved against North Macedonia in March 2022.

“Not winning those two matches left a mark on me for sure,” Insigne told Gazzetta.

“Who knows when that thought will go away…But you must never look back; this time, we have to make it.”

Lorenzo Insigne celebrates as captain of Pescara (@Lega_B)

Insigne played under Gennaro Gattuso at Napoli and built a strong bond with the Italian tactician.

“I talk to him almost every day,” said the Pescara winger.

Insigne: I never said I’m done with the national team’

“I remember that I never said, ‘I’m done with the national team.’ He knows my qualities and my availability, so he’ll make the best choice. Of course, if we stay up with Pescara and I go to the World Cup, then I can retire! I’m just joking though…”

epa09847646 Italy’s forward Domenico Berardi in action against North Macedonia’s defender Ezgjan Alioski during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 play-off qualifying soccer match between Italy and North Macedonia at the Renzo Barbera stadium in Palermo, Sicily, Italy, 24 March 2022. EPA-EFE/CARMELO IMBESI