Bastoni explains two key differences between Spalletti and Mancini for Italy | OneFootball

Alessandro Bastoni says Luciano Spalletti brought enthusiasm and ‘attachment’ to the Azzurri jersey, which had almost gone lost with Roberto Mancini in charge.

Bastoni released a lengthy interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport on Friday, in which he not only discussed Inter and his future plans but also replied to questions about Italy’s national team and the upcoming Euros.

Spalletti replaced Mancini as Italy’s coach in September, so Bastoni was asked what the new CT has given to the squad.

“A strong mentality given by the season at Napoli,” Bastoni replied.

“He has different ideas from Mancini and he’s brought enthusiasm. He made us understand the attachment to the Azzurri jersey, which had almost gone lost.”

Bastoni was part of the Azzurri squad that won Euro 2020. Can the Azzurri repeat the feat in Germany next summer and defend their champion status?

“Yes, we believe in it,” said the 25-year-old defender. “After all, we weren’t favourite in 2021 either.”

Bastoni made his senior Italy debut in November 2020 and has scored one goal in 22 appearances with the Azzurri.

He started four games from eight under Spalletti, missing two due to calf injury. Aside from Euro 2020 with La Nazionale, Bastoni has won one Scudetto, two Coppa Italia and three Supercoppa with Inter.