Italy’s Under 21 national team, guided by coach Silvio Baldini, is preparing to continue its European Championship qualification journey tomorrow in Empoli. Baldini, formerly a significant figure in the city’s football scene, emphasized the importance of a spirited performance against North Macedonia.
“We need to play with enthusiasm and a strong desire to demonstrate our capabilities,” Baldini stated. “This is a wonderful group that has developed significantly, as the statistics confirm. We must translate that progress onto the field with a stellar performance.”
The squad sees Pisilli and Palestra currently with the senior national team, while Camarda is sidelined due to injury. The team will rely on a blend of emerging and experienced young players such as Bartesaghi, Ndour – who recently scored against Inter – and the latest addition, Kayode. Kayode successfully completed rigorous medical assessments, which Baldini noted are stricter than English standards, and has officially joined the team. Due to an injury to Lazio’s promising goalkeeper Motta, Palmisani from Frosinone will step in.
A Divine Calling
Baldini described coaching these young athletes as “a divine gift.” He praised the strong bond within the team, remarking, “They work well together, and that truly makes me happy. We should place more trust in these players than in some foreign talents.”
He issued a rallying cry for national support, urging, “We must all stand united with Italy, first supporting us (the U21s, playing tomorrow at 18:15), and then the senior squad.” Baldini concluded his pre-match press conference with this message of national pride, adding a cautionary note: “We are strong, but we must also remain vigilant against our opponents, as nothing is guaranteed in modern football.”
