Juric frustrated by Italy call-up for 20-year-old Kouadio: ‘A waste of time’

Monza head coach Ivan Juric expressed frustration after 20-year-old Eddy Kouadio received an Italy call-up but failed to make a single matchday squad across four Nations League fixtures. Speaking ahead of Monza's clash with Lazio, Juric labeled the international break a waste of time, arguing the youngster would have benefited more from remaining with his club for two and a half weeks of training.

Roberto Mancini initially selected the uncapped defender amid suggestions Italy sought to secure his international allegiance over the Ivory Coast. However, unlike fellow dual-national Mohamed Ali Zoma, Kouadio did not feature in matches against Belgium, Turkiye, or France, leaving Juric dissatisfied with his lack of playing time.