Evelina Christillin: "Italy is not in the World Cup at all

According to Tuttomercatoweb.

Background

Antonio Conte, known for his innovative tactical approach, could be a key figure in reviving the spirit of the Italian national team. With experience coaching at big European clubs, Conte is expected to bring a new perspective and effective strategies to face challenges on the world stage.

Why this is important

Italy's failure to qualify for the World Cup for the third time in a row is a major highlight in the world of Italian calcio. Evelina Christillin, who has experience at FIFA, stressed the need for reform in Italian football so that it can compete at international level again. Support for Antonio Conte as coach is considered a strategic step to rebuild a strong and accomplished team.

Main Points

• Evelina Christillin: "Italy is not really in the World Cup.
• Evelina Christillin, a former UEFA official, criticized FIFA and backed Antonio Conte as the ideal coach for the Italian national team, while stressing the need for reform in Italian football after another World Cup failure.
• Antonio Conte remains central to Italy's plans.

Evelina Christillin, former member of the FIFA Council, spoke again about the situation of international football and the Italian national team in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport. After more than a year away from his position at FIFA, Christillin expressed his disappointment with Italy's failure to qualify for the World Cup, which he felt was a heavy blow for a football country with a strong tradition like Italy. "Every time I watch a match, I can't help but ask myself why Italy isn't there," he said, reflecting the feelings of many football fans in the country. The failure to qualify for the World Cup for the third time in a row sparked an urgent need for deep reflection on the future of Italian football. Christillin also criticized FIFA, assessing that the body was increasingly influenced by politics. He said, "What we are seeing is unacceptable. The rules should not be bent by anyone, even by politics." According to him, several recent decisions by FIFA set a dangerous precedent in the management of global football.  Despite his disappointment, Christillin remains optimistic about the leadership of Giovanni Malagò as the new federation president, whom he considers to be the right person to start the reconstruction process. He acknowledged that the road ahead was complex, but it was important to initiate real reform, including investment in infrastructure and youth development. He also supported the possible appointment of Paolo Maldini as technical director. "He is a competent and valuable person," Christillin said, adding that if Maldini accepted the position, it would be a big challenge for him. In terms of coaches, Christillin considers Antonio Conte the best choice. "Conte is the best to restart Italy's journey," he said. He described Conte as the ideal figure to lead the national team's revival, given their relationship that stretches back more than three decades. Christillin praised Conte's motivational nature, as well as the character and mentality he can bring to the team. With a clear view of the challenges that lie ahead, Christillin stressed the importance of not only seeking victory, but also of building strong foundations for Italian football in the future. Failure to qualify for the World Cup is not just about results, but also about how the football system in Italy can adapt and develop to return to glory on the world stage.

What happened next

With Christillin's support, there is hope that new leadership in the Italian football federation can bring positive change. If Antonio Conte is appointed as coach, he is expected to implement a strong playing philosophy and build a solid team for the future. This could be the first step to return Italy to winning ways in future international competitions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Evelina Christillin reveal about Italy and the World Cup?

Evelina Christillin expressed her disappointment at Italy's failure to qualify for the World Cup, which she considered a heavy blow for a country with a strong football tradition.

Who criticized FIFA in this interview?

Evelina Christillin, a former member of the FIFA Council, criticized FIFA for being increasingly influenced by politics.

Why does Evelina Christillin feel the need to speak now?

Christillin felt the need to speak out after Italy failed to qualify for the World Cup for the third time in a row, sparking an urgent need for in-depth reflection on the future of Italian football.

What changes does Evelina Christillin support for Italian football?

Christillin supports real reform in Italian football, including investment in infrastructure and youth development.

Who does Evelina Christillin consider to be the right person to lead the reconstruction of Italian football?

Evelina Christillin considers Giovanni Malagò to be the right person to start the process of reconstructing Italian football.

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