In his final match as Italy`s national team coach, Luciano Spalletti led the squad to a 2-0 victory over Moldova. However, he candidly admitted that the team faced difficulties and that he “did not make the difference” during his tenure.
Spalletti, who was aware this would be his last game following Italy`s 3-0 loss to Norway, had hoped to conclude his time as coach with a win. The team fulfilled this wish, but not without some struggle against Moldova in Reggio Emilia.
Goals from Giacomo Raspadori just before halftime and Andrea Cambiaso secured the 2-0 result, though Moldova also created several opportunities.
Reflecting on the match, Spalletti told RAI Sport, “We indeed struggled tonight. There are many factors at play, and we confirmed what we had observed previously. I kept this group together, but I found them extremely fatigued at this point in the season. Perhaps selecting players in better physical condition might have helped, but the fact that all 25 players are in a similar state indicates the toll the campaign has taken on everyone.”
Spalletti highlighted the challenging schedule, noting that playing the toughest match of the group in Oslo at the end of the season was particularly unfortunate. He expressed optimism for the team`s future, stating, “This will be a very different team in much better shape come September.”
When asked about the players` responsibility for poor performances, Spalletti emphasized the coach`s role: “As the national team coach, one cannot have excuses, because he selects the players. If he sees the players are exhausted, he should look for alternatives.”
Looking ahead to the next World Cup qualifiers in September, Spalletti acknowledged the lack of enthusiasm they`re leaving for his successor, despite positive fan response. He concluded with a humble admission: “The coach has to make the difference, the players have to make the difference, and unfortunately, I did not make the difference.”