Ambrosini: Italy faces a tough task to defend its title, reaching the quarter-finals is a realistic goal

Recently, in an interview, former Italian international Ambrosini stated that Italy’s realistic objective at this Euro tournament is to make it to the quarter-finals, with France being a strong contender for the championship.

Ambrosini expressed his views while recording a show with OLBG, saying, “I want to be honest about Italy. Although Spalletti is currently the best coach we could have, I don’t have a particular feeling right now. I’m not sure if he has enough time to implement his ideas on the team. We’ve also lost the key player Acerbi, who would have brought valuable experience. We still have many great players, but I’m realistic – first, we need to get past the group stage. I think reaching the quarter-finals is an optimistic target.”

Ambrosini believes that the team’s level has declined, stating, “This current Italy squad is of lower quality than the one in the 2020 Euros, which grew stronger match by match and developed a special chemistry during the tournament. I’m not entirely convinced this team can achieve the same. Italy is a strange team, failing to qualify for the World Cup finals twice in a row but winning the Euros in between.”

Commenting on Spalletti and his key players, Ambrosini said, “Luciano is an excellent coach, but in just 20 days, he must keep his team playing smoothly, which is different from Mancini’s situation. I hope the players quickly grasp his intentions. Donnarumma? He hasn’t reached Buffon’s level yet; Buffon is like a god to us. For Donnarumma to attain that status, he needs to take on a more significant role in his team over the next three or four years. The most important player for Italy is Barella, who demonstrated his top-class abilities with Inter Milan last season.”

As for which team Ambrosini favors to win, he replied, “I believe France has the strongest squad, with excellent players and ample experience. They are currently ahead of their competitors.”