Former Italy manager,  Arrigo Sacchi has told Italy to ‘enjoy’ the qualification to Euro 2024, but warns that past errors must not be repeated.

The Azzurri got the chance to defend their European championship trophy won in England in 2022 after securing the ticket after a goalless draw against Ukraine on Monday at the Bay Arena.

This becomes a major achievement for the Azzurri, who missed out on the last two editions of the World Cup.

With an opportunity to defend the European title in Germany next year, Sacchi, who was Italy’s coach during the 1994 World Cup, congratulated Luciano Spalletti’s men, saying, “It ended well.”

“We are the European champion, which is the result we wanted, but now we must not commit the errors of the past,” Sacchi told Gazzetta.

He further urged against complacency, saying otherwise, Italy would fall to the ground again.

“They gave their all, and given the circumstances, this is enough for me. I would add that if we had lost, this group of players and this coach could not have been blamed. Luciano Spalletti has just arrived, so we must let him work. He also needs to know the environment and the footballers.”

Sacchi also singled out praises for all players, especially defenders, and midfielders, highlighting how Gigio Donnarumma also played a crucial role in helping the Azzurri secure a point in Leverkusen and qualify for the European Championships.

Federico Chiesa, who was a menace to Ukraine’s defense before being substituted, has also been praised by Italian sports papers.

Sacchi noted that the Juventus winger was selfless going up and down the flank. 

He further explained that Napoli striker, Giacomo Raspadori makes better moves than others because each of his movements aims to enhance the team.

 Sacchi, who said Italy must enjoy this success, added that Spalletti will think about improving this team.

Sacchi urged the Azzurri to make the qualification the starting point to have a chance of becoming leaders.

Not referring to the team’s tactics, the former AC Milan manager said Italy needs to change many things as they are behind the other main national teams in Europe.

He pointed out that Italy have only one notable scorer that can’t be compared with France and even Switzerland.

He, therefore, called on Italy and the FIGC to improve further over the next few years by giving younger players chances in the Serie A.

While noting that there are too many foreigners in the league, Sacchi called for investment in coaches, organising specialised courses, and training them.

Written by Oladipupo Mojeed