Too many guests, distracted players. Spalletti stressed at the German retreat

Too many guests, distracted players. Spalletti stressed at the German retreat

Luciano Spalletti encountered some difficulties during the retreat in Germanywhere the incessant presence of “guests” and numerous extra commitments for the players inevitably created disturbance. The hotel in Iserlohn hosted, in addition to the team group, 110 people including media staff and various guests, an excessive number for Spalletti, who was also accompanied by his son.

Some sponsorwho had acquired the right to stay at the team headquarters, although living in separate areas, still had frequent points of contact, especially in the restaurant area. Shoulder pads he often found himself wondering who all the people were, perceiving it as a distraction.

Sponsors, essential for the financing of sports federations, have allowed the FIGC to record a record income. However, the presence of sponsors led to complications: some players, for example, were forced to attend dinners and lunches or take part in filming sessions for commercials and selfies after training, situations that could distract attention from the main focus, namely sports performance.

In terms of infrastructure, the Iserlohn facility was improved during the retreat, but it did not reach the standard of excellence of Coverciano, to which the team was accustomed. This choice was made for the first time through a UEFA catalogue which promoted a European championship with a reduced economic impact, in line with the policies of the vice-president of the federation, who could not deviate from this direction.

In contrast, nations such as England and Portugal have opted for independently selected and more comfortable facilities, investing significantly higher amounts for their retreats.