Gli Azzurri manager dismisses the criticism over Mario Balotelli snub as excessive; insists that the 1-0 loss to America holds little significance.
Cesare Prandelli has expressed his rage over the unwarranted criticism on the Italian National team’s performance against America.
The former Fiorentina boss blasted the critics, who according to him were formerly focused on problems with their own clubs, and are now flocking around the national team. He insisted that if the match against America was so important,
he would not have played the younger players.
While talking to news agency ANSA, the former Fiorentina coach said:
“I will not stand for this excessive criticism. For two days we had to talk about everything except the game, with everyone worrying about the problems at their own clubs, then we lose a friendly.”
Prandelli insisted that the critics are overestimating the contest against America, despite the fact that the European championship is just a few months away. The former Roma boss insisted that he wanted to test few youngsters
before the Euro 2012.
“[Critics are not] taking into account that if I cared about the result then I wouldn’t have fielded three 20-year-olds, the criticism came pouring down. No, it’s too easy like that.”
It was the Azzurri’s first ever defeat against the USA.
The manager was also asked questions about Mario Balotelli, who was dropped from the national team squad on disciplinary grounds.
While the manager had previously denied receiving any calls from Balotelli or Pablo Osvaldo, he responded differently on being asked again.
“I have received some messages.”
However, the tactician refused to talk about Balotelli, as he believes that the media pressure is only going to disturb the striker.
Prandelli admitted that he has always rated Balotelli highly, and was among the first people to recognize and encourage the Manchester City striker’s profound talent. However, the former Atalanta boss has made it clear that he
will not compromise on discipline, and no player is bigger than the team.
Italy will face Russia in their last friendly before the Euro 2012.
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