Football defeat makes Italy stronger, but Donnarumma Jeers was wrong – Mancini
MILAN: Roberto Mancini believes Italy’s first loss in over three years to Spain will make them stronger, but the coach was unhappy with the Milan crowd for taunting goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.
The European champions lost their UEFA Nations League semi-final 2-1 at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on Wednesday, ending a world record of 37 unbeaten matches dating back to 2018.
« It’s better that it comes tonight than in the final of the Euro or the World Cup, » Mancini said at a press conference.
“But this game makes us even stronger despite the loss and allows us to understand that we are really a great team. «
The Italians had the home advantage on their side but the San Siro crowd proved to be more of a hindrance than a help at times as Donnarumma was booed loudly with every touch.
The goalkeeper has become an unpopular figure among AC Milan fans after refusing to sign a new contract and leaving the club to join Paris St Germain on a free transfer in July.
The situation appeared to affect the 22-year-old, who made a serious mistake in the first half when a shot went through his hands and out of the post.
“Italy was playing and it was not a club game,” Mancini said.
“They could have put this situation aside for a night and whistled when it comes to a PSG-Milan game. Italy is Italy and comes first. «
The Azzurri fell behind on a goal from Ferran Torres before suffering a disastrous end to the first half, as Leonardo Bonucci received a second yellow card and Torres doubled Spain’s lead.
“On Bonucci’s red card, it was reckless because it was a balanced game against Spain and it’s a regret because we were in the game,” said Mancini.
“I don’t blame the loss for anything, but the red card affected the game,” he added. “We were in a bit of trouble, but we could have finished the first half at 1-1. We should not have conceded the second goal at the end of the first half. «
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