Italy coach Luciano Spalletti in awe of Bryan Cristante

Bryan Cristante continues to solidify his reputation among world class managers including Luciano Spalletti.

After proving to be a pivotal player in Jose Mourinho’s roster, Cristante has now grown into one of Spalletti’s favorites with the Italian national team, reports Corriere della Sera.


The ex-Napoli boss is expected to rely on Cristante once more from the start in tonight’s must-win game with Ukraine.

In fact, the 29-year-old is reportedly one of the few names that will not be moved from the original starting eleven that faced North Macedonia on Saturday.

Upon his return to the Italian capital, Cristante will also resume his duties within Jose Mourinho’s side and likely lead them as captain in the first match after the international break with Empoli where he will be expected to wear the captain’s armband in the absence of Lorenzo Pellegrini and Gianluca Mancini.