Spalletti updates on Calafiori injury and what Italy changed after the Euros | OneFootball

Luciano Spalletti says Riccardo Calafiori picked up a knock but hopes he’ll be available against Israel on Monday and explains two key changes that led to a win over France after a disappointing EURO 2024.

Italy CT Spalletti analysed Italy’s win over France in the Nations League during a press conference at the Parc des Princes on Friday night.

The Azzurri conceded after just 14 seconds but then dominated the match and scored three past Milan keeper Mike Maignan with Federico Dimarco, Davide Frattesi and Giacomo Raspadori.

Spalletti updates on Calafiori injury and what Italy changed after the Euros

Spalletti had changed eight starters from the previous match against Switzerland and switched to a three-man defence, but another factor made the difference in Paris last night.

“Effectively, I saw an intensity during training that we didn’t have the other time [at the Euros],” the CT said.

“Perhaps the physical shape had a role. The season has just started, and there is new enthusiasm. The other time, it was the end [of the season], and there had been things that, perhaps, had led somebody to switch off earlier. We were slower.

“Then, there is a tactical situation, too. Having put players back in their positions, they bounced back tonight. Regardless of how this game went, we would have continued playing forever.

“It’s in the DNA of this group I’ve chosen for the Nations League and the World Cup qualifiers. Three, four or five players have stayed home this time, but generally we are convinced that this group can give us so much.”

Davide Frattesi and Calafiori were subbed off due to minor injuries and Spalletti provided updates on both players.

“Frattesi said he immediately informed us as soon as he felt fatigued,” said Spalletti.

“Calafiori must be assessed, but we have good doctors, so we hope he will recover.”

The CT confirmed that the Arsenal defender had picked up a knock in an incident with Ousmane Dembélé.