Italy manager Roberto Mancini was asked about Leonardo Spinazzola and Nicolo Zaniolo’s progress since their injuries. Among other things, Mancini compared the Roma attacker to Jude Bellingham and also considered Federico Chiesa’s long absence an additional reason for Italy’s struggles since EURO 2020.
“Spinazzola? After an injury like this, it takes at least a year to get back to the old ways: having the real Spina back in March would be perfect,” Mancini told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
“I think there are similarities between Zaniolo and Bellingham in terms of versatility: Zaniolo can play as a mezz’ala, a winger and even up front in a two-man attack. Recently I’ve seen him work more closely with the rest of team.”
“Overall, I hope 2023 will bring back the real Chiesa and Zaniolo. After the EURO I practically never had them at disposal, with them and the whole group we can really start doing well again.”