Mancini praises the Premier model: English speed for Serie A

In his latest conference, Roberto Mancini praised the Premier model, calling it an example of dynamism and speed that Italy should emulate to counter the brain drain that threatens to impoverish Serie A.

The risk of the brain drain

Perhaps we would be wise not to raise indignant alarms over the famous football brain drain that threatens to impoverish Serie A. Okay, the league will have a few good players fewer, its fault for not being able to recycle itself to the standards of the big tournaments. Unlike Brazil, Argentina, France and the Netherlands, Italian call‑ups rarely include foreign players.

The new Italy inspired by the Premier

Mancini imagined a starting defence for the new Italy based on the Premier model. He emphasized that the new Italian national team could benefit from this mentality. Gianluigi Donnarumma, currently at Manchester City, would be the goalkeeper. Kayode of Brentford, or Palestra of Chelsea, could occupy the right side. Calafiori of Arsenal, the left side, with Ahanor of Crystal Palace as second reserve after Dimarco. In the centre, Scalvini and Bastoni, flanked by Tonali of Newcastle, would form the central pair. Mancini added that if Leoni of Liverpool were in form, he would reserve a place for him in the squad. Ruggeri of Aston Villa has already played two matches between September and October. They are awaiting news on Udogie of Tottenham and especially Chiesa of Liverpool.

Scalvini and Bastoni lead Italy in the clash against Belgium

English style and mentality

Kayode displayed a middle‑distance runner’s pace in Turkey, keeping his place with his socks pulled down. Palestra, not yet at his level, when at his best reminds of Cabrini on the right flank for physique and movements. Calafiori possesses an elegant run and an intensity typical of the Premier. Tonali faces Premier opponents every Sunday, where he either survives or is out. Donnarumma, despite being everywhere, must be more careful with his foot passes, as shown in Zenica. Mancini wonders why the English run more, hypothesising training methods, nutrition and a fighting mentality of English clubs. According to him, if an Italian club adopted these practices, the scudetto would be won before it even started. Meanwhile, he invites us to enjoy the English in blue.

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