George F. Tilton
Looking at Prandelli's squad, there is a refreshing injection of youth and technical ability: Chiellini, Barzagli, Pirlo, Marchisio, Giovinco, Cassano, Balotelli... at last we have a blend of poise and energy that we have truly been lacking for at least five years.
However, away from the impressive physical attributes of the players, one question begs an answer: will the final azzurri 23 have the psychological grit of their predecessors? Will they find the will to win?
There is no doubt that, in recent times, we have lost some true winners – players with an in-built ‘battle-mode’ that will not be denied. Nesta, Cannavaro, Ambrosini, Gattuso (GATTUSO!), Del Piero, Inzaghi – to a man, born leaders.
We have seen each of these players from yesteryear take a game by the scruff of the neck and force the opposing team to submit. We have seen Gattuso tackle with his face, Cannavaro block shots like someone was pelting a grenade at his nonna, Ambrosini drive forward like a tank, Inzaghi bundle the ball in with the back of his knee to rescue a point. We have seen true grit.
Looking at the current squad, do we lack that steely determination that can prove so vital in tournament football?
Well, we must give the group an opportunity to prove themselves in this respect, as at international level, many of the players are untested. Barzagli, Maggio, Marchisio, Di Natale, Giaccherini – all of these players must grip this opportunity and refuse to let go, no matter what challenges they face.
Luckily, we have a clutch of players to show them the way… players whom have enough grinta to power three Stephen Gerrards:
Buffon is a monster, often times powering the team forward with his quick distribution; Chiellini can be a towering presence at the back and we must hope he plays as well against Spain next month as he did at Euro 2008; Pirlo’s ultimate poise and peerless distribution will rattle any opposition; De Rossi is among the most combative players in Europe – a roaring engine.
Italy are also fortunate to have a new breed of players brimming with confidence: Marchisio has shown a spirit and resilience this year that I never thought would arrive. Cassano has overcome a psychical setback that would have floored most athletes – his enthusiasm and fearlessness will be crucial. Balotelli – for all the xenophobic nonsense ramped up by the English press – is a confident and nerveless young man who possesses all the skills needed to make a vital impact. Let’s just hope he brings his brains onto the pitch.
In the past, we have seen a few players shrink from the heat of the battle (Montolivo and di Natale come to mind), but they must show courage. The last time Italy succeeded at international level, they were rocked by calciopoli. This time round, another scandal has interrupted preparations. Perhaps the current turmoil will have a similar, galvanizing effect.
One thing is for certain: the new azzurri’s grinta will be fully tested in the opening game against Spain. As we will most likely concede possession, it will take great nerve and discipline to succeed. For many of the team, it will be a baptism of fire.
