Vincenzo Italiano: Thursday-Sunday rhythm is draining my players
Vincenzo Italiano praises Trossard and Vlahovic after a tiring week that began against Celtic, and warns of a big test against a four-time champion.
Vincenzo Italiano says the relentless schedule is taking its toll on his squad. Speaking after Sunday's game, the Italian coach explained that playing on a Thursday and again on a Sunday leaves heavy legs in the dressing room, adding that his side began their season back in early July. After facing Celtic, the team only landed back from Scotland at 8pm on Friday. Italiano also pointed out that their latest opponents had played roughly half as many matches, yet he felt his players started well despite the fatigue and showed what a big club looks like.
Trossard and Vlahovic make the difference
Looking back at the Celtic game, Italiano said his team played well for around 70 minutes. He stressed that the quality of Leandro Trossard and Dusan Vlahovic was needed, and that the defensive line also did a solid job. The coach singled out Trossard for praise after his display in midfield, describing the experienced player as a valuable option and a real solution in central areas. Italiano added that he wants to keep working with him on that role once the international break is over.
Tough run after the international break
Italiano admitted there are problems that still need fixing and said work on them will start during the international break. After the pause, his side face an away trip followed by a clash with the best team in the league, a side that has won four titles in a row and, in his words, still has hungry players. He described his own squad as a new team with new players, a new coach and a new idea, insisting they must be fully prepared for such an important game.
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