"Unlucky" or Unwise? Italian Coach's Comments on Israel Spark Outrage Ahead of Match
Ahead of Monday night’s World Cup qualifier against the Blue-and-Whites, Gennaro Gattuso walked back a controversial comment, and praised Israel as a tough, technical side.
Twitter
Just 48 hours before kickoff in Debrecen for the much anticipated match between Israel and Italy, coach Gennaro Gattuso found himself clarifying remarks that had sparked outrage.
After Italy’s 5–0 win over Estonia, Gattuso had said the Italy was “unlucky” to have Israel in their qualifying group. The phrase was widely read as dismissive.
On Sunday, in a fresh press conference, Gattuso struck a very different tone:
“It’s a shame my words were translated that way. I meant we’re unlucky to face such a strong team like Israel,” he said. “Of course I didn’t mean to say anything against Israel. There will be no easy match.”
Gattuso went further, contrasting Israel and Estonia: “Estonia are very physical; Israel are high-quality. They are not as physical, but very technical and tactical. They can cause us problems.”
Midfielder Sandro Tonali echoed his coach, adding that Italy are fully focused on the match itself:
“Our goal is simple, win and take the three points.”
Italy face Israel on Monday at 21:45 Israel time, in a match that could shape the group’s balance. While the Italians are favorites, both Gattuso and Tonali emphasized they are not underestimating their Israeli opponents.