Italy’s return to prominence dominates today’s football papers, with Pio Esposito’s remarkable scoring rate and victories for both the senior and Under-21 sides providing the main talking points.
Esposito has scored at a rate of one goal every 88 minutes, while Francesco Camarda also found the net as Italy’s Under-21 team beat France 2-1.
The senior side’s progress is described as a revival, with Roberto credited with creating a national team that is both credible and popular. One headline compares Mancini with Bearzot and notes the team’s television audience boom, with 8.3m viewers.
Italy face Belgium tomorrow in their final group-stage match, with top spot at stake. Davide Frattesi is unavailable, while the team will also pay tribute to the victims of the Heysel disaster.
The ideas behind the new-look Azzurri include a youthful squad, a European-style 4-3-3 formation, a rebuilt defence and Sandro Tonali operating as a regista. The national team coach is said to have made an immediate impact, with dreams and ambitions growing around the side.
Cardinale outlines Milan ambition
An exclusive interview with Gerry Cardinale carries the headline “Why Mundial Milan”. The American says: “I’ll never sell the club; we’ll be competitive on the market with the richest teams; we’ll win Scudetti again.”
Milan are also searching for a new figure to strengthen their structure and guarantee another step forward. Attention is focused on the American executive expected after Krosche.
Ronaldinho features in another interview, discussing his unique goal in the derby, Endrick’s suitability for Serie A and his own claim: “I play at 46.”
Transfer plans take shape
Inter defender Spence has moved into the spotlight after his performances against Feyenoord and Como. Stones and Jones are expected to return in Bergamo.
At Juventus, Lucio is reshaping the squad while the club look for a mezzala and a centre-forward. Spalletti is pushing for established players who can contribute immediately, with Sorloth among the names mentioned.
Hakan Calhanoglu is attracting Juventus’ interest as his contract renewal with Inter becomes increasingly difficult. Alongside the possibility of returning home and offers from Saudi Arabia, the Turkish midfielder is also considering Como. Massara knows the player from his time at Milan.
Raum of Leipzig is gaining momentum among the free agents, while Nico Gonzalez is expected to return against Venezia.
Injury concern for Torino
Torino are worried about wing-back Belghali, who has already suffered damage to both ligaments. He will undergo further examinations and faces the possibility of a lengthy absence.
Aboukhlal, meanwhile, has offered his support to coach Abate, saying: “I’ll help you.”
