MN: Tonali tastes bitter defeat with Italy – players like him must form future core

There is a lot of disappointment and anger in the air after Italy  were beaten by North Macedonia meaning they will miss out on the World Cup in Qatar.

MilanNews writes how the disappointing qualifying campaign – one that will see them miss a second straight World Cup – means that it is time for a reboot and young players must be the starting point of it, with Sandro Tonali among them.

The Milan midfielder came on in the 77th minute last night for Nicolo Barella but simply wasn’t given enough time to affect the game despite the determination and quality he has shown for the Rossoneri this season. His sacrifice, humility and talent has earned him a starting spot at Milan, and Italy must now build around players like him.

There are obvious problems with the attack that Roberto Mancini keeps persisting with, but the midfield is important for the supply and he needs profiles of Tonali’s level who can grow into a future formidable core.