Claudio Ranieri, Italy's technical director, has emphasized the importance of developing young talent in football, while calling for higher pay for youth coaches. He noted that many young Italian players are fortunate to gain valuable playing experience abroad. Ranieri spoke to reporters in Rome ahead of Italy's Nations League match against Belgium, highlighting Roberto Mancini’s commitment to a strong performance.
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Ranieri, who replaced Paolo Maldini in July, mentioned the extensive responsibilities of his role, stating, "It’s nice because I do a lot of things, there’s so much work to do, and luckily I have many collaborators who can help me." He clarified that although he does not personally scout players, his staff keeps him informed about up-and-coming talent.
Ranieri has also engaged with players of dual citizenship, encouraging them to represent Italy at the senior level. He expressed satisfaction with the national team's growing roster, mentioning that thanks to Mancini, several players have chosen to join the Italian squad.
In a previous statement, he discussed the financial barriers families face with football academies, suggesting that these factors deter many children from playing the sport. He lamented the decline of street football, stating that children today are preoccupied with various activities, including video games.
"I’d like to see them play in the streets," he commented, highlighting an upcoming discussion in the Senate on how to support youth football. He stressed the need for better investment in youth coaches, noting that their low wages are a significant concern. Ranieri cited past examples where coaches in similar roles received better compensation and called for a reassessment of how young player development is funded.
He acknowledged that while many young players struggle to fulfill their potential upon turning 18 or 19, the trend of them being signed by foreign clubs has provided more opportunities for on-field experience. Addressing concerns within the Italian Football Federation, Ranieri reassured that such administrative issues do not hinder their focus, stating, "I’m a man of the field, and we have to do well on the field."