Lippi learns Confed lessons
Marcello Lippi insists he now has clearer ideas about Italy’s future after their Confederations Cup nightmare.
The Azzurri were eliminated from the competition last night after collecting just a win against 10-man America, followed by defeats to Egypt and Brazil.
“We didn’t give a good account of ourselves,” admitted the tactician on Monday. “This is perhaps the worst moment as my time as Italy boss.
“We’ll accept the slaps in the face which we have received, but the reconstruction of this side is still taking place.
“I never said that it was complete and I never stated that the squad which I took to the Confederations Cup would be the one I take to the World Cup next year.”
Lippi has been widely criticised by the Italian media for keeping faith with a large majority of the players who helped him win the World Cup in 2006.
However, the tactician, who returned to the helm last summer after the side’s difficulties under Roberto Donadoni, indicated that change is on the horizon.
“When things go badly you acknowledge them and take action,” continued the former Juventus Coach. “I haven’t come here with blinkers on.
“When I returned to the national bench I started work on rebuilding the side. The veterans were there and I considered them as fundamental in the qualifying process.
“Now though there are some very clear ideas in my mind and I have come to realise a lot of things.”
Lippi seemed to be suggesting that he was ready to dispose of some players and embrace a new breed.
“I won’t mention any names, but I have come to some conclusions,” he added. “And I’m not just talking about the older players, I now have clearer thoughts on the new players too.
“Mario Balotelli? I’m not saying anything and I’m not excluding anything either.”
The tactician has employed a rather adventurous and unsuccessful 4-3-3 formation since his return, but that too looks like it is heading for the scrapheap.
“We do suffer in certain situations,” continued Lippi. “We need something which will offer us a little more balance.”