Inter Milan defender Francesco Acerbi has refused a call-up to the national team for the matches against Norway and Moldova in the coming days, matches valid for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. This was announced by coach Luciano Spalletti himself in a press conference: “Acerbi did not respond to the call-up to the national team, not because of a physical issue but because he has reconsidered what happened around him. We take note of his choice and move on.” The response of the former Lazio central
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“This morning he told me by text that he is not participating, I texted him back and talked to him by phone. There are players who are as deserving as he is to have our consideration and attention. Several times I have said that I have to be careful about what the league offers, and I summoned him for that very reason, because of what he had shown in this period. For the moment we are not going to replace him, of course I had already talked to him a lot even before yesterday but I don’t want to think about anything, only about what I have to do with the guys who are here,” these were the words of the Italian coach, who explained in this way the manner of the Nerazzurri central’s refusal.
Acerbi’s response was not long in coming, as he posted a message on his social media following his rejection of the Italian national team’s call-up:
“After deep reflection, I informed the coach today that I did not accept a call to the national team. It is not a choice taken lightly, because wearing the blue jersey has always been an honor and pride for me. However, I felt that, in light of recent events, the conditions do not exist to date to continue this path serenely. I do not seek alibis or favors, but I demand respect. And if this respect is lacking from those who should lead a group, then I prefer to step aside.I am not one who clings to a summons: I have always given everything, but I do not stay where I am no longer really wanted and it is clear that I am not part of the ct’s project. This is my decision, and as I told the ct this morning, it is not final nor dictated by anger, nor even less by “depression” for a lost Champions final, but only by a need to take a step back.I wish the best to the national team and like my teammates: I will continue to cheer for them with the same attachment I have always shown on the field.”
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