During today’s appointment with L’Editoriale, Xavier Jacobelli spoke on the frequencies of TMW Radio. These are his words:
On the national team?
“Like all the friendlies preparatory to the European Championship, they provided valuable information to Spalletti, especially the one against Bosnia to understand Scammacca’s importance going forward. It’s clear that this team is 70% fit. The work was done to reach the competition at its best. The fact that we arrive as the underdog certainly helps because it is a condition that has always benefited us.”
What spirit is needed?
“We need the same spirit as the youth national teams who have done very well. It’s not true that we don’t have talents. This is demonstrated by the great successes of the U21s or U17s. The problem is that kids find their way into clubs blocked due to lack of courage.”
Spalletti spoke very highly of Calafiori’s choice to go to Switzerland to gain experience two years ago, do you agree?
“Calafiori demonstrated not only courage but also great courage in going to Switzerland. We also know how serious the injury that affected him as a boy was. We can also talk about Vicario, who was the best goalkeeper in the Premier League. I think Spalletti’s reflections are considerable, also because we are talking about globalized football. Those who choose to go abroad have the opportunity to return more mature and stronger from their experience abroad.”
About what is happening at Juventus and Douglas Luiz?
“We are at the beginning of a process of great change. We know very well that there is no certainty until a contract has been filed. It must be said, however, that with the agreement reached we are positive for the arrival of a midfielder with characteristics that have been missing for three years. Giuntoli is immediately managing to carry out operations that respect the very complicated dualism that the Bianconeri experience: strengthening the team but improving the balance sheet.”
On the Juventus transfer market?
“We will make the assessments once the market operations are concluded. This is a particular market because it will be influenced by the European Championship, which will lead us to talk about players we don’t know at the moment. Juventus’ availability is not unlimited and I believe that Motta can also accept a very important transfer. We must also remember, as demonstrated by PSG, that it is not the one who spends the most who wins.”
On Sarri’s words?
“He was the last manager to bring the Scudetto to Juventus. As for the championship lost in the hotel, only the protagonists know how it was experienced. I’m only sorry that he is risking not having a bench in Italy because for me he is a great coach. At this moment I am more inclined to interpret this whole story as a way of dotting the i’s.”
Conte-Napoli?
“Conte is an excellent professional. It must also be said that in his place, who would have declined De Laurentiis’s offer. He has a very important task, also demonstrated by the great enthusiasm that his arrival aroused.”
Baroni-Lazio?
“Two coaches resigning in 80 days is not the consecration of happy technical and corporate choices. We must recognize Tudor for the great consistency that distinguishes him because he resigned when he realized that he would not be listened to. This, however, is the past. This is Baroni who is a technical gentleman and must absolutely be supported.”
