Pirlo: No resentment towards Conte

Posted Tuesday, May 31, 2016 by Foxsports.com

Andrea Pirlo feels no anger towards Antonio Conte for excluding him from Italy's Euro 2016 squad, saying the coach was upfront with him about the decision.

Pirlo, who came out of international retirement to play a role in Italy's qualification for the tournament, always knew that making the final squad would be unlikely, given his decision to play football in the USA.

The midfielder has been a mainstay in the Azzuri side since making his debut in 2002, accumulating 116 international caps since then and playing a crucial part in his country's successful 2007 World Cup campaign.

"I spoke with the coach," the 37-year-old told Sky Italia. "I already knew what I had to do and what he had to do. There was no disappointment.

"I have always talked about this throughout the season with him, these are decisions made by both sides. He is the coach and it is right that he makes the decisions that are best for him," he added.

Conte had previously stated that players who had moved to the MLS would not be considered for the squad travelling to France, and has followed through not only with the Pirlo omission but also that of Sebastian Giovinco, who has shown excellent form in the American league.

"I hope Italy win," Pirlo added. "There are maybe more favoured teams like Germany, Spain and France.

"It will be a great tournament, hopefully my team-mates will bring home the trophy."