Politano’s message hints at bitterness over Italy’s snub

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.

It was just an emoji of a shrug with a smiley face, 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 annoying 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 with 10 assists in 48 competitive matches for the Partenopei this season.

His record with Italy isn’t bad either, scoring three times in 12 senior caps as well as providing one assist.