An explanation has emerged as to why Roberto Mancini brought Salvatore Sirigu on as a substitute for the final few minutes of Italy vs Wales.
Sirigu, a veteran Italian goalkeeper, was a surprise late substitute during the Italians’ 1-0 triumph over the Welsh, replacing Gianluigi Donnarumma between the sticks for the final few minutes plus injury time.
The Torino goalkeeper didn’t even have a touch of the ball, but he won’t have minded, he made an appearance at a major international tournament for his country – a huge achievement.
⏱️ 89′ – A change between the sticks: #Sirigu takes #Donnarumma‘s place 🔁#ITAWAL 1⃣-0️⃣#ITA #Azzurri #VivoAzzurro
— Italy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (@azzurri) June 20, 2021
Sirigu has had to watch from the sidelines in an era in which Gianluigi Buffon has reigned supreme. With Donnarumma now having emerged, he looks destined to forever be Italy’s deputy.
But, for several minutes of action, he was their main man between the sticks, and Mancini recognises just how much that will mean to Sirigu, both now and when he reflects on his career in the future.
Have a read of this…
Mancini even sending Sirigu on for a few minutes in goal. His approach with this squad speaks to his own regrets as a footballer. Went to a World Cup in 1990 and didn’t play. Says it’s still his greatest regret that he never got to play in one.
— Nicky Bandini (@NickyBandini) June 20, 2021
Roberto Mancini – a top manager and a top bloke.
Jamie Carragher has urged Gareth Southgate to make a BRAVE decision on Tuesday night – read the full details here