"Talent matters, but mentality is everything." Paolo Maldini on the Italian national team

The long-time captain of AC Milan and the Italian national team has shared his thoughts on the decline of Italy's national squad.

Details: Italian football legend and World Cup and European Championship silver medalist Paolo Maldini spoke about his frustration with Italy's disappointing performances in World Cup qualification.

When you wear the Italian shirt, you carry with you history, responsibility, and pride. It's not just any national team: It's one of the greatest in the history of football.

Missing one World Cup is a wake-up call. Missing two is a crisis... But three in a row is a total debacle.

In my day, talent was important, but mentality was everything. Discipline, sacrifice, respect for the crest... These were non-negotiable. Today I don't see the same level of hunger. I don't see players willing to give everything for the jersey... The defeat against Bosnia isn't just a result; it reflects a deeper problem.

Without identity, without pride, and without responsibility, Italy is no longer Italy.

Recall that in the final playoff match, Italy lost to Bosnia and Herzegovina in a penalty shootout and will miss the World Cup for a third consecutive time.

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