Inter's Josep Martinez Backs Italy to Bounce Back After World Cup Absences

Competition: UEFA Nations League A
Date: 2 October 2026
Time: 21:45
Match: France vs Italy

Inter Goalkeeper Josep Martinez Backs Italy's Comeback

Josep Martinez, Inter Milan’s goalkeeper, expressed strong faith in the future of Italy as they work to recover from missing three straight World Cups. He believes the Italian squad still holds exceptional talent despite recent disappointments.

Martinez Sees Talent and Mental Hurdles

According to Martinez, the struggles of the Italian national team have more to do with mindset than skill. The absence from consecutive World Cups created a crisis of confidence rather than a dip in player quality. Coach Roberto Mancini is leading a significant rebuild by bringing in young players to shape a new identity for Gli Azzurri.

Martinez, who has played alongside many top Italian players in Serie A, told La Gazzetta dello Sport: "Honestly, I see a lot of potential in Italy. They need to rediscover a defined playing model, but there’s no lack of quality. There are several high-level Inter players and many other valid elements with them. They need to regain confidence after the disappointment of missing the World Cup; for me, it’s more a mental thing than a quality issue."

Personal Milestone for Martinez

This encouraging view comes as Martinez himself marks a personal achievement. He was called up again to Spain’s national squad by Luis de la Fuente, returning after his first senior cap in June 2021. An injury to Joan Garcia opened the door for Martinez to join alongside David Raya and Unai Simon as goalkeepers.

Upcoming Challenge Against France

Italy’s test arrives on Friday in the UEFA Nations League when they visit France at the Stade de France. Mancini will need to come up with a sharp tactical approach against Zinedine Zidane’s strong French side. Getting a good result in Paris is key to boosting morale and keeping Italy’s knockout phase hopes alive.