Spalletti explains Maldini and Pisilli Italy call-ups: ‘I want to see them on the pitch’ | OneFootball

Italy national team head coach Luciano Spalletti has explained why he opted to call up Roma youngster Niccolo Pisilli and Monza’s Daniel Maldini for his latest squad and why he has only tajen a squad of 23 players with him for the last two training camps.

The CT sat down for his customary press conference on Monday afternoon, ahead of Italy’s upcoming Nations League fixtures against Belgium and Israel coming up this week.

Why Spalletti called up Maldini and Pisilli to latest Italy squad

Daniel Maldini has been included in the Italy squad 22 years after his father, Milan legend Paolo, earned his last Azzurri call-up.

Spalletti feels that he brings something different to the other players at his disposal.

“He is a player that we have been missing,” Spalletti said, reported via TMW.

“He has a beautiful way of playing, he holds his own in tackles, he knows how to get his nose in front of defenders and it becomes difficult to catch him. He knows how to play with his back to goal, sometimes he can go quiet in games, but I’ve seen him play with continuity and I think he’s grown significantly.

“Let’s see what effect being here has on him. I am convinced that being here can push him on. He will be encouraged to be more consistent, because sometimes he dips out of games. I like talking to him because the possibilities are endless for him.”

Spalletti also explained why he has called up Pisilli to his latest Italy squad. He came with glowing reviews from former Roma coach Daniele De Rossi and the CT feels that he can play an important role for many years to come.

“Looking at Pisilli, he seems like a really good midfielder. He knows how to play in both phases, and he is someone who always shows up.

“De Rossi told me that he always scores in small-sided games, he’s always present. He has high frequency and has lots of energy. He is someone who can do a bit of everything. He can be part of our new history.

“I think he deserved to come here with us, and now everyone is realising it too. We have to test things out here: For now I only bring 23 players, I don’t want to have two more players who get five or six minutes, and they end up feeling left out.”

He later continued: “I brought Maldini and Pisilli in the 23 because I want to see them on the pitch, making a difference for the national team.”