Luigi Di Biagio Resigns as Italy U-21 National Team Coach

DBasia.news –  Italy U-21 national team coach, Luigi Di Biagio, decided to resign from his post after failing to bring the Italy U-21 to qualify from the European U-21 group phase held in Italy. Di Biagio has been coaching Italy U-21 for six years.

“I am no longer a U-21 coach. I thank everyone, from the director to Maurizio Viscidi (FIGC Youth Player Coordinator),” Di Biagio said at the press conference session.

“Mistakes come from us alone, we don’t seek excuses. One of the most responsible is me and the kids who have been with me.”

The Italy U-21 started well when they won 3-1 against Spain U21 (17/6). Then in the second match they lost 1-0 to Poland (20/6) and then won 3-1 against Belgium (23/6).

Italy did end the group stage in the second place standings with six points. But, they still have to wait for results in other groups as only one place in the semifinals will only be won by the best runners-up.

Meanwhile France and Romania only played a goalless draw from group C. Both teams did not release any kicks on target and were considered eyeing to get rid of Italy. As a result, France went to the semifinals with Romania, Germany and Spain.

Valuable Lessons for Azzurrini

Squad containing talented players does not guarantee success. Italy U-21, with host status, plus young players who are mostly targeted by European clubs, are unable to get out of the group stage despite being favorites to win.

Some of the talents in the squad are: Moise Kean, Federico Chiesa, Patrick Cutrone, Nicolo Barella, Nicolo Zaniolo, Sandro Tonali, and Lorenzo Pellegrini.

They failed to win the U-21 European Cup. However, their experience will be a valuable asset when strengthening the Italian senior national team.

“We have to separate our results in recent years from what has happened at this European Cup,” Di Biagio added.

“I will say that is the work that has been done: we bring so many young players, we have shown to be competitive, and so many go to the senior national team.”

“Young Italian teams have gone far beyond expectations. Real failure is when you don’t get points at all and no one enters the national team,” Di Biagio said.