Very proud of Antonio Conte's work with this Italia side. Injuries to first Marchisio, Verratti before the tournament and then to Candreva and De Rossi during depleted our midfield. Yet, we brought the Germans to Penalties, a lottery that we were unlucky at this time. His passion, energy and enthusiasm was amazing to watch and he emphasised work ethic and heart above all. I respect that. His selections weren't perfect - even his supporters would admit that Jorginho, Gabbiadini and maybe even Berardi would have been helpful but to be fair, Eder and Pelle (before the penalty) were solid this tournament. He didn't make full use of his creative talent - Insigne, Bernardeschi and El Shaarawy, but our identity was based on work ethic, structure and defense and not magic. So, again - I respect his tactics. This thread is a simple thank you to him. He brought great memories to me this tournament, great joy in making it this far and it was quite nice for almost everyone, neutrals and even our own people, to turn from pessimistic to optimistic. Thank you Conte, Bravo Conte, Bravo Italia, Forza Azzurri. Ventura will hopefully continue his work and evolve and strengthen the squad.
He's a great motivator but was never going to create a winner with his lack of trust for half of the team.
I'm not going to hate on the guy, definitely exceeded my expectations. Now it's time to bring the well deserved youngsters in.
Don't be sad, I have great news for you. Conte said he hopes to sit on the Italy bench again one day. Fcuking marvelous.
Conte definitely stepped up and proved everyone wrong. he made this tournament memorable and took the Germans to penalties. The team bowed out with grace.
Whether you like him or not he's ascending to the top of world football and at a record pace. I'm thankful for the passion that he put in to this project.
I couldn't be more content with what the team and coach achieved. Not one superstar and they were able to take down 2 of the best team teams in the world with great fashion. They only lost to Germany in penalty kicks. What more can you ask of a team and coach. I have been watching the azzurri from the 70's and this is the most excited and impressed I've been. I love our team and coaches passion. Conte has deserved all the accolades he has received and is undoubtably one of the best coaches in the world. IMHO, the best Italian coach!!
Great coach but a stubborn bastard who should have put fresh legs in the second half and we could possibly be in the semis with France.