FFS I wish we could just concentrate on football. No real football supporter tunes in to see who is taking a knee and who isn't. I can care less about the political and sociodemographic views of a bunch of 20 year olds, whether they take a knee or not. Let's just worry about beating Austria.
This political crap is shoved down our throats 24/7, it has no place in sports. I'm 100% with the anti racism displays and programs but focusing on just one race is pretty absurd, we have modern day slavery happening in the middle east ffs, where's the protests for that? Anyway, looking forward to the game. Cassano and Pazzini are both going to get a goal, mark my words.
The issue has nothing to do with solidarity for black players. The knee is in support of the BLM movement which has clear political ties in the USA. I don't even understand why European players (regardless of color) have to make a statement for something that does not pertain to them. If you want to come out against racism, bring out a banner before the game, or wear an armband, etc...something that is not specifically viewed as aligning with a political organization from another continent. And lets be honest....what does taking a knee even solve. Nothing. It's just an empty gesture to appease a few people on social media. Doesn't actually fix anything.
Locatelli has been one of the best players throughout this tournament so far. And he's played incredibly well with Jorginho and Barella. I believe in the whole "if its not broke, don't fix it". No point in tinkering with the lineup from those first two games. Nothing against Verratti, but Locatelli has earned his spot in the starting lineup. Regardless, its a great problem for Mancini to have. Our midfield is spectacular.
Verratti has earned his spot throughout qualifying. He was fantastic against Wales. 2 games is 2 games. I'm OK with Locatelli starting if need be, but this passionate backing for him to start as if he's locked up that starting spot is crazy, with all due respect of course The moment this team becomes predictable, is the moment teams can find ways to make it crack.
Does nobody on here watch PSG outside of the champions league? Verratti is absolutely stunning when he’s on. He can control a game and midfield by himself. There’s not a lot of club sides where he isn’t a first choice 11 and the Azzurri shouldn’t be different. I will acknowledge that I wish he scored more goals, but as well all know there is more to the game than just putting the ball in the net. I can’t actually remember Jorginho scoring a non penalty for Italy ever, yet we all know he’s essential and fantastic.
You've got to take your chances against these bunkered teams. I'm livid Immobile couldn't control the ball on that breakaway. They have to keep up that pressure. When Austria gets the ball and attacks they have been turning it over a lot in the midfield. That is where Verratti can't hold the ball. He's got to be more direct and punish them quickly on the counter. FORZA AZZURRI
insigne a little slow in his decision making so far. Berardi not having a great half either....going to his left way too much...he's got to go to his right.
Both Berardi and Insigne have been poor. The team doesn’t look very sharp at the moment. Chiesa has to come into this game soon….
Pathetic display, I knew all the media hype laughing and smiling and giggling would come back to bite us in the ass