Brendan Rodgers' new chapter in Saudi football has been praised by Italy striker Mateo Retegui, who called the Al Qadsiah manager a 'wonderful man' as his team prepares to face Northern Ireland in a World Cup play-off semi-final. The match, set for Thursday night at Atalanta's New Balance Stadium in Bergamo, marks a significant moment for both teams as they vie for a place in the final of the play-off round. Retegui, an Argentine-born forward who joined the Saudi Pro League this summer for £55 million, has expressed admiration for Rodgers' leadership and success since his arrival in December. The former Celtic and Liverpool manager has led Al Qadsiah to a strong start, securing 14 wins and three draws in his first 17 matches, propelling the club into title contention. Retegui highlighted Rodgers' impact, stating that the team has not lost a game under his guidance and that their collaboration has been marked by mutual respect and a positive rapport. The Italian national team, managed by Rino Gattuso, faces a crucial test against Northern Ireland, a match that could determine their path to the World Cup finals in North America. The winners of this tie will face the victors of the Wales vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina clash, with the final four teams set to compete in Group B alongside co-hosts Canada, Switzerland, and Qatar. Retegui's comments come amid a tense atmosphere in the play-off group, where Bosnia-Herzegovina's head coach Sergej Barbarez recently apologized to Brondby manager Steve Cooper after accusing him of deliberately dropping a midfielder in a draw to harm his side's chances.#mateo_retegui #rino_gattuso #al_qadsiah #brendan_rodgers #atalanta_new_balance_stadium
Italy National Team Striker Mateo Retegui Expresses Excitement Ahead of World Cup Qualifier Against Northern Ireland Mateo Retegui, the Italian-Argentinian striker, addressed the media on the eve of Italy’s crucial World Cup qualifier against Northern Ireland, emphasizing the team’s readiness for the high-stakes match. The game, set to take place in Bergamo, marks the first play-off round in the UEFA World Cup qualification campaign. A victory would secure Italy’s place in the decisive tie against the winner of the Wales-Bosnia matchup on June 30. Retegui, who arrived in Italy a week early, shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming challenge. “I’m really looking forward to playing a match like this. The whole team is ready,” he said, highlighting the collective determination to prove their readiness for the tournament. He revealed that his early arrival in Italy was arranged with manager Rino Gattuso, who supported his decision to train at Coverciano. “I’ve been thinking about this match ever since the one against Norway,” Retegui added, underscoring his focus on the upcoming fixture. The striker praised the support of the Bergamo fans, noting the stadium’s atmosphere as a key factor in the team’s performance. “We need to stay calm, do what we’ve been doing in training, and go out there to win the match. There’s no other result than victory,” he insisted. Retegui also expressed admiration for teammate Pio Esposito, calling him a “great player” and emphasizing the team’s unity. “We’re one big family,” he said, dismissing any notion of rivalry among players. Retegui reflected on his emotional connection to representing Italy, calling it “the most important thing that’s ever happened in my life.#bergamo #northern_ireland #mateo_retegui #italy_national_team #rino_gattuso
