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Gennaro Gattuso has called up Samuele Ricci and Matteo Gabbia for the November internationals, and he shared his thoughts on the AC Milan duo.
A few months ago Milan did not have any representatives in the Azzurri squad, but given their positive start to the season and the emergence of both Gabbia and Ricci, that has now changed. The former has become a pillar of the Rossoneri defence, and the latter is now getting more regular starts.
For Italy, they are facing another uphill battle to qualify for the World Cup, which they have missed the last two editions of. They look almost certain to have to go down the play-off route, which could pit them against someone difficult.
Gattuso on Gabbia and Ricci
Gattuso held a press conference on Monday at Coverciano, the Italian national team headquarters. Soon the camp will move to Milanello, which is home for two of the players that have been called up.
How do you see the midfield?
Barella is with us, he’s suspended in the first game. I spoke to Tonali 10 days ago; surely we can’t afford to miss an important player like him for the semifinals. I think it’s difficult that he’ll play against Norway.
“Regista? Locatelli can play there, Ricci too. We have it. Locatelli is a natural playmaker, Ricci can also play as a mezzala.”
You’ll return to Milanello, and see Gabbia again…
“I spent 14-15 years at Milanello. I have memories, but I’m not emotional [to return]. There are so many things to think about. As for Gabbia, I also told him, he’s a lad who has grown a lot. I like the way he plays and how he trains.
“I knew he was a serious guy, but I have to say that he’s really improved in recent years, and he’s doing things seriously. When a player is humble and understands this, it’s already a great value.”
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