Italy coach Luciano Spalletti on
Friday defended his decision to call up Nicolò Fagioli to his
preliminary Euro 2024 squad, even though the Juventus midfielder
has only just returned from a seven-month ban for betting on
matches.
"First of all it is a technical decision," Spalletti told a
press conference at Italy's training base at Coverciano, near
Florence, where his squad have gathered to start the
preparations for the defence of their European title.
"Niccolò has the quality, creativity and physique that you need
in this competition.
"Then the field of play will say if it was the right choice.
"From a human point of view, when I had the chance to talk to
him, he made a very good impression on me and, if we look at his
sins, I think he deserves understanding.
"He couldn't resist temptation but he didn't bet on his team".
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