In the just-concluded quarterfinals of the UEFA Europa League, Italy was defeated by Spain with a score of 1-2, and regretted not to be connected with the third place battle. The country is known for its prolific defenders, but had to rely on a defense line with an average age of 103 years old to keep things going in the last match. 36-year-old captain Bonlus was called "the guilty party of the loss" by netizens because of his poor performance. Public opinion has called on coach Vincenzo to boldly reform the team's rejuvenation, otherwise it will be difficult for the Italian team to gain a firm foothold in the competition.
Vincennes used a 352 formation in their last match, with three center backs in Rafael Dulay, 32, Fransco Ashabi, 35, and Bonlus, 36. Just three minutes into the match, Banglus exposed the team's old age when they conceded a goal due to an opponent's pressing error. In fact, Bonlus made only 16 appearances in the last Serie A season due to injuries and poor form, and has announced that he will retire in semi-retirement next summer. However, Vincenzo still insisted on starting him and paid a terrible price as a result.
As a matter of fact, Serie A does not lack excellent center backs, such as 24-year-old Juventus player Gaddy, 27-year-old Roma center back Kianluca Vincennes, and 28-year-old Lazio center back Alissio Romaloni. However, these players have not been utilized by Vincenzo. Coupled with the injury of Inter's newest star, Bastoni, forcing the team to rely on a "103-year-old defense" to fend off opponents, Vincenzo's selection decisions were widely questioned.
