Rome, Italy – September 25: Nicolò Barella strikes the ball for Italy during the UEFA Nations League 2026/27 group match against Belgium at Stadio Olimpico.
Legendary defender Beppe Bergomi claims Roberto Mancini is out of sync with Serie A’s evolution, noting the team clung to old ideas rather than the dynamism seen at Inter, Roma, Frosinone or Como. In my view, his criticism underscores a tactical lag.
Italy fell 2-0 at home to Belgium in the Nations League opener, marking Mancini’s return to the touchline after his 2023 departure.
On paper he deployed a 4‑3‑6, yet the versatility of Giovanni Di Lorenzo and Nicolò Cambiaghi let Italy shift into a 3‑5‑2 at various stages.
It wasn’t just the result that irked Sky Sport Italia analyst and 1982 World Cup winner Bergomi, but the manner in which the side performed.
Bergomi disappointed by Mancini’s Italy
‘I expected something radically different. Losing is fine, but I hoped to see the season’s Serie A flair,’ Bergomi said.
‘Inter, Roma, Frosinone and Como all showcase a distinct style, yet we saw none of it. The setup felt stale, with Barella or Tonali merely tagging along the striker.’
‘I anticipated full‑backs surging forward, but the approach was more conservative. Cambiaghi was the most incisive, taking on defenders and setting up Kean and Pio Esposito, who forced impressive saves.’
‘Barella shone in midfield, but our defensive frailties were glaring.’
Serie A has avoided a single 0‑0 draw this season, with clubs like Frosinone and Cagliari praised for their aggressive, attacking play despite often battling relegation.
Roma, Como and Inter are celebrated for their entertaining attacks, so Bergomi expected that energy to echo in Mancini’s Italy.
‘Mancini has ideas and they’ll need time, yet I truly anticipated a fresh look after the first game. Serie A offers countless intriguing tactics, each team adding its own twist.’
‘This Italian side displayed none of the innovations we witness in the league,’ Bergomi concluded.