Fagioli: ‘Not surprised by Italy snub, Kean and Dzeko difficult to stop’

Nicolò Fagioli insists he was not surprised at being snubbed by Italy for the World Cup play-offs, but Fiorentina teammates Moise Kean and Edin Dzeko will be ready.

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The midfielder has impressed in the Viola jersey so far this season with two goals and three assists in 37 competitive appearances.

He already has seven senior caps for Italy, but none since October 2024, after returning from a ban due to illegal gambling.

Fagioli ready to wait for Italy chance

It was widely expected that he would receive a call-up from Gennaro Gattuso for the World Cup play-offs, but he was not included.

“Honestly, no, I think all those players who are there deserved it,” Fagioli told Sky Sport Italia.

“There was controversy over these call-ups, but it would’ve been the same if I had been called up or anyone else, because that is how it works in Italy.

“All we should do is cheer on the Azzurri against Bosnia, wishing them all the best. I hope to do enough to earn my place in the squad in June.”

Some of his teammates are in the Italy squad after the 2-0 victory over Northern Ireland, as Kean was on target following the Sandro Tonali opener.

“Kean struggled more this season, but that’s because in Italian football they study you more carefully after a successful campaign,” insisted Fagioli.

“He also had some injuries and wasn’t in the best shape, but he gave us a big hand to get us out of the difficult situation at Fiorentina. He’s a great player and is proving it for the Nazionale too.”

Fagioli is also familiar with Bosnia and Herzegovina centre-forward Edin Dzeko, who scored the equaliser against Wales last night, forcing extra time and an eventual victory on penalties.

Now they will face Italy in the World Cup play-off final on Tuesday March 31.

“Bosnia are a tough opponent, there is no such thing as an easy game now, we saw how well-organised Northern Ireland were, despite not having any great individual talents.

“Bosnia have a lot more quality in the side, including Dzeko. I got along very well with him at Fiorentina, I was sad he didn’t get to fully prove himself here, but we all know what kind of a player he is.

“I wish him all the best, just maybe not against Italy…”

Does Fagioli have any advice about how Italy can stop Dzeko on Tuesday?

“It’s difficult, he has good technique, and is phenomenal in the air. Italy’s defenders need to be really focused.”