Italy boss Roberto Mancini spoiled for choice in the midfield

The biggest talking point in Italy camp this international break is, ahead of two Euro 2020 qualifiers, how a berth can be achieved in this round, and with two matches to spare.

Since day 1 on the job for CT Roberto Mancini after the sacking of Gian Piero Ventura, clinching a spot in this tournament was deemed the first step in the Azzurri’s restoration project towards a revival to reclaim what was once theirs – a seat at the adult table with the world’s powers.

Sitting comfortable and cozy atop the Group J table with a perfect 6-0 record, the Italians have been elevated all over the pitch through some impressive performances, though it would be remiss to not hone in on the special happenings which lie in the midfield. Continue reading

Five takeaways from Italy’s latest Euro 2020 qualifiers

Italy wrapped up their latest set of Euro 2020 Group J qualifiers with a 2-1 victory Sunday evening over second-place Finland, with Ciro Immobile putting away his first goal for the Azzurri since September 2017 and Jorginho converting the decisive match-winner from the penalty spot.

With wins over Armenia and Finland, Roberto Mancini’s men maintained their perfect record in the qualifying phase with 6 victories and have moved closer to securing a spot in next summer’s competition.

Here are five takeaways from Italy’s latest matches. Continue reading

Serie A Round 1 Fantacalcio Player Trends: Stock Up

Round 1 of the 2019/20 Serie A season was action packed, with plenty of fireworks and goals to go around. Between Fiorentina and Napoli’s 7-goal thriller on Saturday to Roma and Genoa proving to all outsiders why the Italian top flight isn’t as defensive as many believe, calcio fanatics could not have asked for much more on the opening weekend. And, if you are signed up and belong to our Fantasy Serie A platform, chances are you reaped the benefits of an offensive outburst which saw 33 goals throughout 10 matches – the most among Europe’s top five leagues last week.

After Round 1 of play on the peninsula, here are FIVE players trending upward you should consider adding to your squad ahead of the weekend. Continue reading

Sensi satisfied by dream start to life at Inter

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Stefano Sensi spoke to Inter TV in the immediate aftermath of the Nerazzurri’s 2-1 victory against Lugano yesterday evening. Indeed, the Italian midfielder made the perfect start to life at his new club by opening the scoring with a sumptuous strike from distance. Here is what he had to say: Continue reading

Stefano Sensi, Sassuolo’s midfield metronome manifesting his true potential

Sassuolo are one of Serie A’s biggest surprises thus far in the 2018-19 campaign, lurking unexpectedly amongst the pack for a top four spot in the table after 17 rounds. Roberto De Zerbi’s astute tactical approach and philosophy has been transmitted onto his fledging Neroverdi squad, yielding results from a system which has earned acclaim across the continent.

While De Zerbi’s significant impact since arriving at Mapei Stadium this past summer is palpable and largely to credit for Sassuolo’s emergence this season, few have thrived more under the tutelage of the ex-Foggia coach than young Italian midfielder, Stefano Sensi. Continue reading

Blue Wave: Mancini Calling Up Sensi and Tonali Signals Azzurri Shift

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It has been nearly a year to date since the Azzurri’s full-blown capitulation and failure to qualify for the 2018 FIFA World Cup shook the country to its core, and only up until recently have the Italians shown a glimmer of hope in lifting themselves back to the summit of international football.

Much has been made about the fitness of acting coach Roberto Mancini to lead the Italian National Team back to prominence they are historically known for, but unlike his failed predecessor and universally loathed coach Gian Piero Ventura, the 53-year old CT is signaling a shift towards success through the regular integration of future stars. Continue reading