New Italy Under-21 coach Luigi Di Biagio is prepared to help the squad succeed and aid their growth.
The 42-year-old is filling the position of Devis Mangia, who led the Azzurrini to a second place finish in the UEFA European Under-21 Championship this year, which is a promotion from his previous job as the country’s Under-20 boss.
Di Biagio spoke to La Repubblica about his plan to continue on the path of his predecessor.
“I am very happy and proud of this new position,” said the former Roma and Inter midfielder.
“I am aware of the difficulties that await me. Mangia did a great job in terms of results and the performances of the team. He also continued to grow the young talents chosen.”
A number of gifted Azzurrini youngsters have already landed caps with Italy’s senior squad, including Alessandro Florenzi, Marco Verratti, and Mattia De Sciglio, but the tactician aims to discover more talent.
“I haven’t spoken to Cesare Prandelli yet, but Arrigo Sacchi always told the youth levels to give the priority to the senior Italy squad and it’s only right.
“Verratti, De Sciglio and Florenzi must not be considered isolated talents, as our task is to get results and uncover something new, but above all to grow these lads.
“I often speak to youth team co-ordinator Sacchi. He helped me improve during these three years working with the Federation, as he sets out the guiding principles.
“This will be one of the most important periods for the Under-21 side, as we must prepare for the Euros and the 2016 Olympics in Rio De Janeiro.”
