Italy is set to miss its third consecutive World Cup after losing to Bosnia & Herzegovina this evening.
Despite being four-time world champions, Italy has not participated in the World Cup finals since 2014 in Brazil.
During that tournament, they were eliminated in the group stages, repeating their 2010 performance in South Africa.
The decline of the Italian national team continues, even as they came close to qualifying.
Italy started strong, scoring in the 15th minute with a goal from Fiorentina’s Moise Kean, looking to take an early lead.
However, Bosnia and Herzegovina pressed hard, forcing Gianluigi Donnarumma to make several crucial saves.
Just before half-time, the game changed when Alessandro Bastoni was sent off for a foul on Amar Memic as he broke through Italy’s defense.
Italy maintained their lead despite being reduced to ten men, but Bosnia’s persistence paid off when Haris Tabakovic scored in the 79th minute, just eight minutes after coming on.
The match then went into extra time, remaining without a winner and leading to penalties.
Italy struggled during the shootout, with Francesco Esposito missing the first penalty. Sandro Tonali scored for Italy, but Bosnia converted all of their attempts, and Bryan Cristante’s miss meant Italy was eliminated.
This defeat could provide a significant boost for Manchester United, and here’s why.
Manchester United’s Interest in Sandro Tonali
Since the winter transfer window, Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali has emerged as a key target for Manchester United, who see him as a potential successor to Casemiro.
Reports suggest that United has opened discussions with the 25-year-old’s representatives through an intermediary.
Although Tonali wants to focus on the season with Newcastle, he is also open to a move to Old Trafford.
Now, he appears to be the most likely summer signing, and Italy’s loss today may aid this move in two ways.
If Tonali had participated in the World Cup and performed well, he would have attracted more attention.
In his recent matches, he scored Italy’s first goal against Northern Ireland and assisted on another in their 2-0 victory.
Tonight, he was Italy’s only successful penalty taker, proving his reliability in crucial moments.
Had he excelled at the World Cup, United might have faced increased competition for his signature, and his price could have significantly risen.
A strong World Cup performance can elevate a player’s value, and with Tonali already at around £70 million, that number could’ve soared.
The other advantage for United is that they may secure his transfer sooner.
During a World Cup, players often focus solely on their national duties, delaying transfer discussions until after the tournament.
With Italy not qualifying for this summer’s World Cup, that hurdle is no longer present.
Ultimately, Italy’s misfortune could provide Manchester United with an unimpeded opportunity to pursue one of the top midfielders in the Premier League without the usual distractions and inflated prices typically following a World Cup.