Donadoni contract overshadows Spain clash

March 26, 2008

The pick of the Wednesday night international friendlies features World Champions Italy’s clash with Spain in Elche. Both sides are among the favourites to win Euro 2008 and will almost certainly be major players at the 2010 South Africa World Cup Finals.

By that end, tonight’s encounter should be an enthralling contest, giving an indication of how each nation will fair in Austria & Switzerland this summer.

However, the major talking point is the contract of Italian coach Roberto Donadoni, whose contract expires at the end of Euro 2008. As yet, it is not certain whether or not the former AC Milan star will lead the Azzurri through the 2010 World Cup qualifying campaign, proving a major distraction to the Italian national squad.

“I received an offer for a contract renewal and I said no because I don’t like this type of contract,” said Donadoni.

“This doesn’t mean I will go to the European Championships less motivated: I will continue to earn my crust, indeed I’ve already earnt my crust as national team coach, otherwise I wouldn’t be here.”

Donadoni, who has endured much criticism during his reign as Italy boss - despite negotiating a difficult group which included World Cup finalists France, Ukraine and a rejuvenated Scotland challenge - was offered a two year contract extension by the Italian FA. However it came with the condition that he negotiate the Azzurri to at least the semi finals of Euro 2008 - certainly not a vote of confidence for the coach.

“Whether or not there is trust in me I can’t say, it’s something that is demonstrated every day in life,” added Donadoni.

“Am I ruling out a future with the national team? I never rule out anything.”

Inevitably, Donadoni’s contract issue is causing a distraction for the players with key midfielder Gennaro Gattuso speaking out in defence of the under pressure coach.

“I can only tell him to look forward and don’t think about it. He should just concentrate on doing well with Italy and then I think he’ll get a new contract.”

Donadoni’s latest squad includes some controversial decisions, such as the omission of in-form Sampdoria striker Antonio Cassano, who has been in spectacular form this season since returning to Italy from an unhappy spell in Madrid. Veteran Juventus forward Del Piero has struggled to get a look in under Donadoni since the end of the last World Cup in 2006. Ironically, Donadoni has favoured club-mate Vincenzo Iaquinta, who is behind Del Piero in the Bianconeri pecking order.

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