Roberto Mancini’s Masterclass: How He’s Fixing Italy’s Flaws
When Roberto Mancini took over as the head coach of the Italian national team in 2018, the Azzurri were in a state of crisis. The team had failed to qualify for the World Cup for the first time in 60 years, and morale was at an all-time low. But Mancini, a former Manchester City and Inter Milan manager, was determined to turn things around.
In his first few years at the helm, Mancini faced numerous challenges. The team was lacking in cohesion, creativity, and defensive solidity. Italy’s tactics were often predictable and easy to defend against, and the team’s lack of width and penetration in attack left them struggling to create scoring opportunities.
However, Mancini has been working tirelessly to address these issues. He has implemented a number of changes to the team’s playing style, which have had a significant impact on their performances.
Defensive Solidity
One of Mancini’s main priorities has been to improve Italy’s defensive solidity. He has achieved this by introducing a more organized and compact defensive structure, which has seen the team concede fewer goals and keep more clean sheets.
Mancini has also placed a greater emphasis on the importance of set pieces, recognizing that these can be a key source of goals. He has worked with his players to improve their defending from set pieces, and the team has seen a significant reduction in the number of goals they concede from these situations.
Attacking Creativity
To address Italy’s lack of creativity in attack, Mancini has introduced a more possession-based style of play. This has seen the team dominate games and create a plethora of scoring opportunities.
Mancini has also given his attacking players more freedom to express themselves, allowing them to roam and create chances in the final third. This has seen players like Federico Chiesa and Lorenzo Insigne thrive, and the team has seen a significant increase in their attacking output.
Width and Penetration
Another key area that Mancini has focused on is providing width and penetration to Italy’s attack. He has achieved this by introducing wingers who are comfortable playing on both the left and right flanks, and by using full-backs who are willing to get forward and provide width.
This has seen Italy’s attack become more unpredictable and difficult to defend against, and the team has seen a significant increase in their chances created and goals scored.
Player Development
Mancini has also placed a great emphasis on developing his players, recognizing that the team’s success is dependent on the quality of the individuals within it.
He has worked closely with the Italian Football Federation to identify and develop young talent, and has given opportunities to players who may have otherwise been overlooked. This has seen a number of young players make their mark for the national team, and has given Italy a sense of excitement and optimism for the future.
Conclusion
Roberto Mancini’s masterclass has been a game-changer for the Italian national team. He has taken a team that was in crisis and turned them into a formidable force, with a solid defensive foundation and an attacking style that is both exciting and effective.
Mancini’s ability to identify and address Italy’s flaws has been key to their success, and his willingness to experiment and adapt has allowed the team to evolve and improve. As Italy looks to the future, Mancini’s masterclass will be a key factor in their ability to succeed and become a major force in international football once again.