Italy national team manager Roberto Mancini has questioned why nobody in his country wanted to sign Leeds United's young star Wilfried Gnonto after his impressive displays this season.
The 19-year-old was handed his first real chance within the Italian national set up by the former Manchester City boss when he made his senior debut back in June last year in the UEFA Nations League.
That appearance put his name on Victor Orta's radar, and the move went from there - fortunately for the Whites, Gnonto has practically proven his weight in gold after a fantastic four goals so far in his 20 appearances for Leeds.
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In his latest press conference ahead of the international break, Mancini was asked about the lack of young talents coming out of Italy and their over-reliance on experienced players.
But the Azzurri boss dismissed that claim and pointed out that youngsters simply aren't given enough chances, pointing out Gnonto as an example.
"I believe that phenomenal players emerge in South America, Argentina, and Brazil, where kids play in the streets. This doesn't happen in Italy. This is a problem.
"I don't know about coaches. I think Italian coaches are all prepared. I think kids must go on the pitch and have fun. It takes time. At this moment there aren't new talents in Italy. There are 4-5 players who should play on the national team.
"Why did nobody sign [Wilfried] Gnonto? He could have gone to Fiorentina, Sampdoria... he could have played for any team, but he is a starter in the Premier League.
"There is an Italian player in the Dutch league. There are players out there. If you give them a chance, you can find some. But in this moment that's the situation."
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