Acerbi turns down Italy call-up

Still in the hangover of the defeat of Inter Milan in the Champions League final, Francesco Acerbi has once again made headlines in Italy, this time in the dynamics of the national team. Luciano Spalletti sounded the alarm at a press conference when he revealed that the centre-back has no intention of being called up to the national team. Visibly hurt by the decision, the coach closes the door on him.

“Acerbi did not accept. We took note and moved on. He told me by message that he will not participate, I replied and we spoke on the phone. There are players who deserve our consideration as much as he does,” the coach cut short, to which the protagonist himself, Acerbi, responded shortly after on his social networks

“After deep reflection, I have informed the coach that I do not accept the call-up to the national team. It is not a decision taken lightly because wearing this shirt has always been an honour and a source of pride for me. However, I have considered that, in light of recent events, there are not the conditions to continue this path with serenity. I am not looking for favours, I am looking for respect. And if this respect is lacking on the part of those who should lead a group, I prefer to step aside”, he began.

He went on to explain: “I am not someone who clings to a call-up. I've always given my all, but I don't stay where I'm not really wanted and it's clear that I'm not part of the coach's project. This is my decision. As I have told the coach, it is neither final nor dictated by anger. Much less because of the 'depression' over the lost Champions League final, but because of the need to take a step back”.