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Sandro Tonali delivered a blunt assessment of Italy’s squad after Friday’s 2-1 defeat to Belgium in Rome, admitting the Azzurri lack the individual brilliance to change matches in an instant. The 26-year-old midfielder called for senior players to shield younger teammates from criticism as Italy prepare to face Turkey in Bursa on Tuesday, chasing their first points of the Nations League campaign before a trip to face France in Paris on Friday.
Tonali Steps Up as Leader Ahead of Crucial Turkey Showdown
Tonali showed growing leadership within Roberto Mancini’s squad ahead of the Nations League clash in Bursa. Having started in Friday’s loss, the midfielder confirmed he has recovered fully, both physically and mentally.
He stressed that Italy must respond immediately to secure their first points of the campaign. Unity across the squad, Tonali argued, matters most during this transitional period for the team.
Midfielder Demands Senior Stars Absorb Pressure to Free Young Talent
Speaking to reporters, Tonali offered a mature take on Italy’s squad dynamic. He acknowledged the team lacks a singular match-winning talent capable of deciding games in seconds. Experienced players, he said, must absorb public criticism so younger teammates can play with freedom.
Tactical growth requires patience rather than instant results, according to the midfielder.
“I feel good, I’ve recovered 100 per cent,” Tonali declared. “We didn’t play well on Friday and we deserved to lose. It’s up to us more experienced players to shoulder the difficult moments and allow the younger ones to play with freedom and to grow. We don’t have that one star who can change a game in ten seconds, so we have to work step by step.”
Tonali Highlights Squad Unity and Long-Term Potential
Despite recent results, Tonali expressed full confidence in the group’s health and work ethic. Building international chemistry, he noted, takes time and repeated match experience. He urged patience from supporters and media covering the squad.
The midfielder insisted the group possesses enough quality to reach its long-term goals.
“This is a very healthy, very young group, and you can’t expect everything straight away,” Tonali added. “We still have plenty of matches to play together and we need to keep working to become even more of a team. Our quality will come through.”
Tonali Prepares to Anchor Central Midfield in Bursa
Tonali now turns his focus to matchday duties at the Ataturk Spor Kompleksi. Mancini relies on his tactical discipline to dictate tempo against Vincenzo Montella’s energetic side.
Three points in Bursa would set up the trip to Paris on the right footing. Tonali aims to guide his side to a response worthy of the shirt.
Read also: Turkey vs Italy Prediction: 28.09.2026 UEFA Nations League
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