Since Mancini returned to the dugout, the atmosphere around the Azzurri has noticeably improved, despite years of profound heartbreak. Italy have endured severe disappointment on the international stage, failing to qualify for the last three World Cup finals – a sharp contrast to their historic triumph at Euro 2020 under Mancini during his first tenure in charge.
‘One of the best things about the coach is that he allows us players to feel a sense of peace. We had some very difficult and not positive experiences in recent years, especially when it comes to me, Gigio Donnarumma and Alessandro Bastoni,’ Barella explained. ‘The coach asked us to rediscover our enthusiasm, and I think we are doing that, because otherwise we wouldn’t have got back on track in France and then nearly won it at the end.’ This renewed spirit has been evident in Italy’s ability to fight back in tough away environments.
