Mancini: “Donnarumma is the strongest ‘keeper in the world, Tonali is young and needs time to adapt, Calabria…”

Roberto Mancini spoke about the Milan trio briefly in an interview with GdS.

Ahead of the match between Inter and Juventus at Stadio San Siro on Sunday night – which Milan can only gain from – Luigi Garlando of La Gazzetta dello Sport sat down with Roberto Mancini – the current coach of the Azzurri, the Italian national team – to discuss some things.

You can find a small part of the translated interview here below:

Mancini, is Inter-Juve still the challenge between the two favorites?
“Yes, Inter have grown over the years, they have strong players and they are ready to win. Juve still have the most competitive squad and the experience of 9 Scudetti.”

For whom does it matter more?
“For Juve it’s almost decisive. They can’t lose any more points, with three teams in front of them. Even if they have one fewer match.”

Inter have only won one direct match [Napoli] put of 5: do they lack quality of player?
“No, Inter are strong and have many quality players.”

Eriksen has played very little. Could he play mezz’ala next to a playmaker, like Verratti with Jorginho?
“He can do everything with the quality he has. But Conte knows him better than I do and he knows Inter better. Without forgetting that Italian football is different.”

You were among the most generous to comment on the bet taken on Pirlo. Do you confirm it?
“Yes, I like the offensive game that Andrea is looking for. He has some problems with consistency but it’s logical: he’s changed a lot, he needs time. Let’s be precise: Inter and Juve are the best equipped teams, they remain the favorites, but it doesn’t mean that one of the two will win for sure. Milan, for example, can also get to the end. Now we must take note of it. I didn’t expect them to do so well. You don’t win so much by chance.”

Don’t you see something of your Italy in them?
“Of course. A few experienced players and many quality youngsters. Enthusiasm, contagious empathy, courageous playing principles, long unbeaten streak… Yes, we are similar.”

Calabria has grown a lot, in a role that is not very covered in the Azzurri…
“He did well here with us last time too. He has talent, personality and determination. He’s a good guy.”

Tonali is struggling more than expected…
“It’s normal. He is very young. He arrived early at a big club and he needs time to adapt. A bit like what happened to Romagnoli. But in recent matches Tonali has done much better. Romagnoli has also grown. They could be useful in the Azzurri.”

Back to San Siro…
“You didn’t ask me about Gigio…”

Please…
“Today Donnarumma is the strongest goalkeeper in the world.”