Italy’s interim coach explains his squad selections ahead of friendlies against Luxembourg and Greece, criticizes the system for blocking young talent, and reveals his long-term Olympic vision.
Italy interim head coach Silvio Baldini delivered a passionate and outspoken press conference in Florence ahead of the Azzurri’s upcoming friendlies against Luxembourg and Greece, offering a clear diagnosis of the problems affecting Italian football and defending his decision to build the squad around young players.
Following Italy’s third consecutive failure to qualify for the FIFA World Cup, Baldini has been entrusted with guiding the national team through two matches before returning to his role with the Under-21 side. His squad selection has attracted attention, featuring a youthful core alongside captain Gianluigi Donnarumma and striker Francesco Pio Esposito.
“These two matches can hopefully be useful for whoever comes after me,” Baldini said. “I called up the youngest players because they have an opportunity to show what they can do.”
The veteran coach made it clear that his selections were also intended as a statement about the future direction of Italian football.
“If my choices are meant to send a message? We need change, and I don’t know what could represent change more than this. Young players must be given space. But as long as our football is in the hands of crooks, I see it being very difficult.”
Baldini was careful not to place blame on the Italian Football Federation, instead pointing the finger at clubs for failing to provide opportunities for emerging talents.
“It’s not the federation’s fault because at youth level we are always among the best, if not the best. The problem comes with the next step. That step never arrives, and it doesn’t arrive because of the clubs.”
Donnarumma’s Call and the Future of the National Team
One of the most revealing moments of the press conference came when Baldini discussed the aftermath of Italy’s painful elimination in Zenica. According to the coach, only one senior player reached out after the disappointment.
“Donnarumma called me and I could hardly believe it. Others didn’t, but I understand them after a disappointment like the one they experienced at the end of March.”
Baldini’s squad reflects his long-term vision. The group includes four players born in 2008, three born in 2006, seven from 2005 and nine from 2004, highlighting his commitment to youth development.
The coach also revealed that his thinking extends well beyond the current international window.
“I work with the goal of reaching the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. Gigio and Pio would certainly be part of that group.”
“Authority Comes From Credibility”
Baldini emphasized the relationship he has built with younger players through his work with Italy’s Under-21 team.
“In the eyes of these players, and in the eyes of my Under-21 squad, I am credible. They can feel it and they trust me. There are no fines. There is only a sense of responsibility.”
Despite speculation about a possible long-term role with the senior national team, Baldini quickly dismissed the idea.
“Let’s not joke. To be the head coach of Italy, you need a certain résumé. First I would need to go to next year’s European Championship and win it, and then go to the Olympics. Only then could I have my say.”
Response to Greece Criticism
Baldini also responded to comments from Greece coach Ivan Jovanović, who reportedly expected a stronger Italian squad for the upcoming friendly.
“Everyone can say what they want,” Baldini replied. “But I’m surprised that certain reflections come from the country where democracy was born.”
The interim coach concluded by reiterating the philosophy that has defined his career.
“I consider myself a free man, and I want my players to express the freedom to play on the field. But when you don’t have the ball, you have to run.”
For now, Baldini’s mission is limited to two matches. Yet his words offered a broader message about the state of Italian football, one centered on youth, opportunity, and the urgent need for structural change if the Azzurri are to return to the top of the international game.
