Di Canio ‘can’t get carried away’ by Italy’s win over Estonia
BERGAMO, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 05: Italian team training before the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match between Italy and Estonia at Stadio di Bergamo on September 05, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)
Paolo Di Canio is not thrilled with Italy’s 3-1 win over Estonia, but appreciates the “sense of belonging” shown by the players under Gennaro Gattuso.
Former Serie A and West Ham striker Di Canio remains critical of the Italian national team despite three consecutive victories under new coach Gattuso.
When asked if he was excited about the Azzurri’s 3-1 win over Estonia last night, Di Canio replied (via Napolimagazine): “My answer is no.”
Di Canio ‘not excited’ about Italy’s win over Estonia
“If I was excited about a win like this it would mean I put Italy somewhere between Bosnia-Herzegovina and North Macedonia and with all due respect I think we are stronger than that,” the former West Ham star continued.
“And then I would throw my football knowledge in the trash, ignoring the level of our opponent.
“Finally, if I had to do it just to please someone, that’s not my style. I care deeply about the national team, and that’s exactly why I’m so critical.
“When I think that just a few weeks ago we didn’t deserve to beat Israel and only won 5-4 in the final seconds, when Norway could have beaten them 12-0, I just can’t get carried away.”
Italy remain second in Group I, six points behind Norway but with a big goal difference in Norway’s favour, meaning the Azzurri will likely have to go through the playoffs to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
Di Canio, however, is pleased with the sense of belonging and attitude shown by the Italian players under their new coach.
“On the other hand, I am really happy with one thing: the enthusiasm of the team,” he said.
“I saw several players, including Bonucci, celebrating with passion. It seemed forced at first, but I actually like it. The national team lacked that sense of belonging, that self-awareness among the young players.”
Italy’s next match is against Israel in Udine next Tuesday.
The final two matches of the World Cup qualifying group will be against Moldova away and at home (San Siro) against Norway in November.
