Why Tottenham and Roberto De Zerbi will love Sandro Tonali call vs Turkiye as Italian media react

Roberto De Zerbi will be delighted that Tottenham's Sandro Tonali was only given 20 minutes for Italy against Turkiye.

The midfielder had started the previous three Nations League fixtures for his nation.

With so many starts in such little time, there was an increased risk of injury due to fatigue.

Life for Tonali in N17 has not started too well, but as the weeks pass, he is growing into his role.

The break for international football was another opportunity for the Tottenham midfielder to play himself into form.

With the Italian media now chipping in with their assessment of the midfielder's 20-minute cameo against Turkiye.

How did Sandro Tonali perform in Italy cameo vs Turkiye?

Tonali did not have much time to impact proceedings against Turkiye, with him only coming on the pitch in the 70th minute.

At the time of his introduction, his nation were already 2-1 up, so it was more about keeping calm and maintaining that lead.

The Tottenham midfielder was asked to run the game from manager Mancini, with the Italian media praising him for his short performance.

Sky Sports Italy have given him a six out of 10, sharing: "He comes on for Barella, but takes center stage, making it clear that the coach believes he's currently the national team's playmaker. He brings muscle and technique to the table to add another win to the new era."

The publication would go on to label his display as "energetic."

Additionally, Corriere Dello Sport kept their assessment short, but their words perfectly sum up how Tonali played.

While also handing down a six out of ten, they state that Tonali "took control for Italy" in a playmaking role.

Overall, though, De Zerbi will likely care more about the fact the midfielder was finally given some rest.

It will boost his selection process with the 26-year-old now in a much better spot to recover ahead of the return of the Premier League.

How Tonali kept Italy cameo composed in win vs Turkiye

As stated, Tonali did not have much time to influence the game against Turkiye.

As per FotMob, he was only able to carve out 16 passes in 20 minutes, with 14 being accurate.

Although he was said to be in a playmaking role, he created zero chances, but at this stage of the game, it was more about keeping shape and preventing an equaliser.

Defensively, he did make one clearance and complete one interception, while also winning the only duel he competed in.

Not an overly exerting display, but yet a positive for the Italian and the Tottenham manager in the final game of the international break.