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Inter's Josep Martinez Confident in Italy’s Rebuild After World Cup Absences
Amir Azimi
Daily News

Inter's Josep Martinez Confident in Italy’s Rebuild After World Cup Absences

Josep Martinez Backs Italy's Recovery After World Cup Setbacks

Inter Milan goalkeeper Josep Martinez has expressed strong faith in Italy's ability to bounce back following their failure to qualify for three straight World Cups. The Spanish keeper sees the issue less as a lack of talent and more as a psychological hurdle that the team must overcome under coach Roberto Mancini’s guidance.

Assessing Italy’s Current State

Martinez believes the struggles on the international stage come from a crisis of confidence rather than diminished skill. Missing the World Cup tournaments led to a blow in morale for the four-time champions, prompting Mancini to focus on rebuilding the squad with fresh young players. This new generation is expected to reshape Italy’s style and identity moving forward.

Mental Strength Over Quality Concerns

Having played alongside top Italian talents in Serie A, Martinez feels confident in the quality available to the national team. In an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, he said: "Honestly, I see a lot of potential in Italy. They need to rediscover a defined playing model, but there’s no lack of quality. There are several high-level Inter players and many other valid elements with them. They need to regain confidence after the disappointment of missing the World Cup; for me, it’s more a mental thing than a quality issue."

Personal Milestone: Return to Spain Squad

Martinez’s optimistic view aligns with his own career highlight as he earned a surprise recall to Spain’s national team under Luis de la Fuente. The 28-year-old returns to the squad for the first time since his debut cap in June 2021. An injury to Joan Garcia opened a spot for him among other goalkeepers like David Raya and Unai Simon.

Upcoming Test Against France

Italy faces a tough challenge this Friday, traveling to Paris to play France at the Stade de France in the UEFA Nations League Group A1. Mancini will need to plan carefully to counter Zinedine Zidane’s strong side. A good result in this match is important not just for points but to boost confidence and keep hopes alive for advancing in the competition.

  • Competition: UEFA Nations League A
  • Date: 2 Oct 2026
  • Time: 21:45
  • Match: France vs Italy
  • Next Match: Club Friendlies - Lumezzane vs Inter on 3 Oct 2026 at 12:00

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