Politano’s message hints at bitterness over Italy’s snubbing over disastrous EURO 2024

Napoli winger Matteo Politano has sparked controversy with his cryptic reaction to Italy’s EURO 2024 elimination, hinting at his irritation at being left out.

The Azzurri were knocked out of the tournament in the last 16 tonight after an embarrassing 2-0 defeat to Switzerland, with goals from Bologna’s Remo Freuler and Ruben Vargas.

Following the defeat, Politano posted a cryptic message on his Instagram stories.

It was just an emoji of a shrug with a smiley face, with no text.

This can be interpreted in different ways, but clearly the 30-year-old was upset at being left out of Italy’s squad for this tournament.

It was particularly galling to see players used out of position to cover his role in a 4-3-3 formation.

Politano was an integral part of the Napoli side that won the Scudetto under Luciano Spalletti, so the player was understandably upset at being snubbed by the same manager for the Nazionale.

It is true that Napoli have had a disastrous campaign this season, but Giovanni Di Lorenzo has retained his place in the starting XI.

Politano has scored nine goals and provided 10 assists in 48 competitive games for the Partenopei this season.

His record for Italy isn’t bad either, scoring three times in 12 senior caps and one assist.

Message from Politano