Italy Coach Cesare Prandelli has said he is wary of Wednesday’s friendly with Spain as they could meet in the World Cup.
Prandelli was questioned about whether or not he actually wants to play Spain today and he confirmed that he doesn’t, and explained his reasons why.
“If I’m honest, it’s a game I would rather avoid. Three months before the World Cup, it’s a game of a high level that can put us in difficulty, but I come with enthusiasm,” he told Marca.
“It’s not a matter of choosing another opponent. If Spain and Italy go well in the group stage we may meet again later in the tournament, so I didn’t want to give clues of our new ideas. That’s all.”
Prandelli has suggested he sees holes in Spain’s team and said that the World Cup holders’ style of play could be turned against them.
“Spain are one of the best teams in the world but no one’s perfect.
“Our goal is to cause problems and to do that we have to take risks. We have the ability to give more.
“Paradoxically, Spain’s quality may be their weak point at times. They want the ball all the time and constantly go back to the same idea.
“On one hand it’s great but you can have problems when you lose the ball.”
Prandelli repeated that Spain are among the best teams in the world and went on to name a handful of others on the same level.
“Spain, Brazil, Germany and Argentina [are the best in the world. Then there are Uruguay, Colombia, Belgium, England and Italy, who can create problems.
“Del Bosque will work on [his players being satisfied with past success]. I think it’s more difficult to renew this situation.
“We’re talking about a winning Coach who must convince some amazing players, most of whom have already made history.”
Prandelli’s future after the World Cup has been in doubt and he says he has no plans for after the tournament, but would consider one day working in Spain.
“Today I have not decided [if he will continue after the World Cup]. After the match against Spain we’re going to have a meeting to clarify the future.
“It would be an interesting experience abroad but my future remains unclear.
“Moreover, in La Liga there are already great Coaches who are doing well in their respective clubs. I’ve had no offers so far.”
