As the Italy-Belgium match approaches, Philippe Albert strongly criticized Domenico Tedesco‘s management of the national team, criticizing the absence of certain executives. The former player does not hesitate to question the commitment of certain players to the Red Devils. But in reality, what risk do players who refuse selection for the national team risk?
A few hours before the match between Italy and Belgium, Philippe Albert expressed his opinion in the columns of SudInfo. The coach of the Red Devils, Domenico Tedesco, is criticized for allowing players like Lukaku, De Bruyne or Meunier to stay at home, without participating in Nations League matches. A decision that Philippe Albert considers deeply problematic. According to him, you cannot be a part-time Red Devil. He goes so far as to assert that “all this becomes unhealthy.“
Concretely, a player cannot be excluded from the national team for having refused a call-up. Although the federations often denounce the pressure exerted by the clubs, it is the latter who generally prevail. For what ? Because the player belongs to his club, not to the national team, and the club has no interest in its players getting tired or injured during international matches.
What does FIFA say?
FIFA has established a rule stipulating that a player can only refuse a call-up to the national team if he is ill or injured. However, this rule is rarely applied and no concrete sanctions are imposed in the event of refusal.
In addition, the question of sanctions is delicate. Imposing a fine seems unrealistic, if only to determine its amount. Another option would be for the coach not to call up the player at the next opportunity. But it seems difficult to imagine Domenico Tedesco threatening to leave players such as Kevin De Bruyne or Romelu Lukaku on the sidelines.
Also read Nations League: the Red Devils are expected to turn the corner
As the president of the French Federation explained, facing a similar problem with Kylian Mbappé – absent from selection for the Nations League despite playing with Real Madrid the previous weekend – the real question is on the intensity of the players’ schedule. In a context of multiple competitions and a frenetic pace of 65 matches per year for high-level players, the pressure is immense. According to him, the priority must be to convince the entire football world that playing for the national team is an honor.
Red Devils domenico todesco football
Analysis: Italy-Belgium Match and Philippe Albert’s Criticism of Domenico Tedesco
As the highly anticipated match between Italy and Belgium unfolded, the Italian team managed to hold on to a thrilling 2-2 draw, despite being down to ten men after Lorenzo Pellegrini was sent off <a href="https://www.eurosport.com/football/uefa-nations-league/2024-2025/italy-2-2-belgium-leandro-trossard-rescues-point-for-visitors-after-thrilling-nations-league-clashsto10363296/story.shtml”>[1] <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/report//gameId/698939″>[2] [3]. But amidst the on-field drama, a controversy has been brewing off the pitch.
Former player Philippe Albert has been openly critical of Belgium’s coach, Domenico Tedesco, and his management of the national team. Specifically, Albert has questioned Tedesco’s decision to allow key players like Lukaku, De Bruyne, and Meunier to stay at home and skip Nations League matches [no source link provided].
Albert’s criticism raises a valid question: what risks do players face when they refuse selection for the national team? By opting out of national team duty, players may avoid the physical and mental strain of international competition, but they also risk being seen as uncommitted or unpatriotic.
This can have repercussions on their reputation, relationships with their coaches and teammates, and even their market value. For instance, if a player is perceived as uninterested in representing their country, it may affect their chances of being selected for future tournaments or even impact their standing within their club team.
However, it’s also essential to consider the flip side of this argument. National team duty can be demanding, and players need to prioritize their physical and mental well-being. If a player is struggling with injuries or fatigue, it may be wise for them to take a break from international competition to avoid burnout.
Ultimately, the decision to play for the national team is a complex one, influenced by various factors, including personal circumstances, coaching decisions, and team priorities. While Albert’s criticism of Tedesco’s management raises valid concerns, it’s also crucial to acknowledge the nuances involved in representing one’s country.
the match between Italy and Belgium has provided a thrilling start to the Nations League, but the controversy surrounding Tedesco’s management and player commitment serves as a reminder of the intricacies involved in international football. As the season unfolds, it will be interesting to see how this narrative develops and how players, coaches, and teams navigate these complex issues.
