Italy Under-21 team qualifies for UEFA Euro with win over Poland

Italy's Under-21 team qualified for the European Under-21 Championship next summer with a 6-2 victory over Poland on October 7, 2026. Italy Under-21 coach Silvio Baldini emphasized that the issue for Italian football is not a lack of talent but inadequate leadership from club directors. Baldini noted a strong connection between the players and both Roberto Mancini and Claudio Ranieri, who have been key in allowing young talent to flourish. The coach mentioned that about 11-12 players are ready to step up to the senior national team. He criticized clubs for sending young players out on loan instead of nurturing them.

• 6:20 PMYahoo Sports — Baldini: ‘The problem for Italian football is not talent’ as 11-12 players ready