Locatelli breaks silence after exclusion from Italy Euro 2024 squad | OneFootball

Manuel Locatelli has broken his silence after Luciano Spalletti’s decision not to include him in the preliminary Italy squad ahead of the European Championship.

The 26-year-old Italian midfielder was one of the surprise exclusions from the Azzurri squad last month, raising some eyebrows amongst supporters. He played a central role to the team’s success at the last edition back in 2021, which seemingly sealed his move to Juventus.

Locatelli has struggled to impose himself in Turin under Massimiliano Allegri, but his stocks at the Bianconeri could turn around once Thiago Motta’s new project begins to take shape. This season, he scored one goal and provided four assists across 36 Serie A appearances.

After being dropped from the Italy squad by Spalletti, the 26-year-old Juventus midfielder reacted by posting a completely black Instagram story before falling silent, making his feelings apparent.

Locatelli opens up

Writing on his Instagram page, Locatelli reacted to his exclusion from the Italy squad and commented on his mindset heading into the summer.

“I took a few days after the end of the season to carefully reflect on everything. The season has been long, and we have achieved the team’s objectives. Now it’s time to enjoy time with my fantastic family.

“I’ll always have a positive outlook because I’m aware that I gave everything. Working every day to improve myself is my mentality, and it’ll always be like this. A hug to all of you.”