Spalletti critiques Italy's direction after Juventus friendly win

Luciano Spalletti, head coach of Juventus, commented on Italy's technical direction following a 2-0 friendly victory over OGC Nice on July 31, 2026. Spalletti likened the Azzurri's recent struggles to an attempt to update outdated technology, criticizing the return of Roberto Mancini and the departure of Paolo Maldini from a leadership role. In discussing his current Juventus squad, Spalletti noted the need for a stronger center-forward and a creative midfielder as they negotiate to sign Randal Kolo Muani and Kerim Alajbegovic. He shared concerns over Italy's stagnant progress since his departure as coach.

• 9:05 PMYahoo Sports — Spalletti: ‘Italy tried updating with Maldini, but stuck with old phone instead’