“There’s no point in him playing” - Italy coach Luciano Spalletti hits out at Arsenal midfielder Jorginho during Euro 2024 loss to Spain
Italy Head Coach Luciano Spalletti has criticized Arsenal midfielder Jorginho for his performance in his side's Euro 2024 defeat to Spain on June 20. The experienced midfielder played only the first 45 minutes of the 1-0 defeat as the Azzurri struggled to gain a foothold in the game.
Jorginho played a starring role in his country's Euro 2020 triumph three years ago. Hence, the veteran midfielder remains one of the first names on the team sheet for Italy. He was named in the starting XI against a Spanish side that absolutely dominated, and like the rest of his team, he struggled to influence the game.
Former Napoli boss Luciano Spalletti was having none of it as he hauled off Jorginho at the half-time interval, introducing Bryan Cristante. In an interview with Sky Italia after the game, he said that there was no point in playing the Arsenal man as he was getting his basics wrong. He said via Goal:
"He must come and get the ball, otherwise there’s no point in him playing."
Against a great deal of Spanish pressure, Jorginho failed to make himself available for his teammates in the first phase of play, angering his coach. He completed 25/31 passes, won 2/6 duels, and was dribbled past three times. Spalletti showed his anger at the 32-year-old during the first half before eventually hauling him off at the interval.
The midfielder was excellent at the last Euros. He won the UEFA Player of the Year award that year, having won the UEFA Champions League in the same season. The Arsenal man remains a key player for the Azzurri, but he needs to raise his game when they face Croatia in their final group match of Euro 2024 on June 24.
Arsenal star ruled out of Euro 2024 through injury
Arsenal defender Kieran Tierney has been ruled out of the rest of Euro 2024 after picking up an injury in Scotland's match against Switzerland. The left-back, who spent the 2023-24 season on loan at Real Sociedad, has been plagued by injuries for much of his professional career.
Tierney started both games for Scotland, but shortly after the hour mark against Switzerland, he overextended his thigh following a clash with Dan Ndoye. The 27-year-old had to be stretchered off looking visibly upset, and Scott McKenna replaced him.
Scotland assistant coach John Carver has revealed via the Mirror that Tierney will return to Arsenal, where his injury will be further observed. The former Celtic man may return to support his teammates if they progress deep at Euro 2024.