Di Lorenzo reveals Spalletti’s World Cup message for Italy and tactic against Haaland

DORTMUND, GERMANY – MARCH 23: Giovanni Di Lorenzo of Italy controls the ball under pressure from Maximilian Mittelstaedt of Germany during the UEFA Nations League Quarterfinal Leg Two match between Germany and Italy at Football Stadium Dortmund on March 23, 2025 in Dortmund, Germany. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)

Giovanni Di Lorenzo says Italy aim to ‘keep the ball as much as possible’ against Norway and reveals that Luciano Spalletti remembered the team that ten-year-old kids have never seen play in the World Cup.

The Azzurri are preparing for their first World Cup qualifying match against Norway on June 6, and Di Lorenzo spoke at a press conference from Coverciano on Tuesday.

Their opening game against Norway is arguably the most important one in the qualifiers.

“We are aware of it. The coach reminded us right away, but he didn’t need to,” said Di Lorenzo via TMW.

“It will be a tough, difficult game. The qualification largely depends on the game in Oslo. The group is entirely focused on this match.

Di Lorenzo reveals Italy’s plan vs. Norway and Haaland

“The plan is to defend against Haaland, Sorloth and Odegaard. We’re preparing for the match the best way we can,” Di Lorenzo continued.

“Our goal is to keep the ball as much as possible, using our quality in midfield. The way we can limit their strengths and highlight ours.”

The Azzurri have conceded several goals in recent games.

“True, but many came from set pieces,” noted Di Lorenzo.

“We’re facing a team that’s strong in that area, and the key will be keeping possession more, not letting them get near our box.”

The Napoli captain has never played in the World Cup and could have one final possibilità to feature in the tournament next year.

“I know and I want to play in it,” he said.

“I miss this competition, and the same is true for other teammates. The coach told us that some ten-year-old kids have never seen Italy play in the World Cup. Three times in a row would be unbelievable. We know how challenging this group is, and Friday’s game is crucial.”

Di Lorenzo on Acerbi refusing Italy call-up: ‘A personal matter’

Coppa Campioni winner Gianluigi Donnarumma returned to Coverciano yesterday, while Francesco Acerbi refused to play for the national team, as he does not feel part of the project.

“We are happy for Donnarumma,” said Di Lorenzo.

“I think he’s one of the best goalkeepers in the World, if not the best, especially based on what he showed in the Coppa Campioni. He arrived yesterday and was full of enthusiasm. They have great strikers, but we have a great goalkeeper. It will be essential to play as a team from start to finish.”

As for Acerbi, “it’s a personal matter. What I can say is that being here is a pleasure and honour for everyone in the national team. The Azzurri shirt stands above everything else.”