Patrick Vieira explains why he has ‘doubts’ about Italy’s Euro 2020 chances

Former French  International, Patrick Vieira says he has major ‘doubts’ that the Italians can reach the latter stages of Euro 2020 as he believes Roberto Mancini’s side lack ‘intensity, power and pace’ going forward.

The Blues recorded a massive 3-0 win against their Turkish counterpart in their opening Group A match before beating Switzerland by the same margin to become the first team to book their place in the knockout stage. 

Their convincing back-to-back victories have led many to hail them as early tournament favourites alongside the likes of France, Belgium and England. 

But former Arsenal captain Vieira refused to get caught up in the hype as he dissected their performances in the ITV Sport studio

The legendary French International who won the Euros back in 2000 said he was going to withhold his praise given Mancini’s men because they are yet to be ‘really tested’.

Italy head coach Mancini looked to play down expectations following the win over Switzerland, arguing that his team are still in their developing stages when compared to the likes of France, Portugal and Belgium.

“In the European Championship, there is France, Portugal and Belgium. One of those are world champions, another is European champions and the last one is the number one ranked side in the world,’ he told reporters.

“These are teams who have been built over a number of years and it’s only natural they are further along than us but everything can happen in football, you shouldn’t take anything for granted.

‘” Every match is difficult, you always have to go out there and play. I’ve been fortunate in that I have had some very good players who like playing the game, they enjoy being out there and like taking risks.

"The players are the ones who deserve the credit. I try to explain my thought process and there is still a long way to go.’

The Frenchman concluded by saying, he waits to see the real testing of the Blues before he makes his final conclusion.