Italy’s secret weapon is former banker Gianni Vio who has created 4,830 set-piece routines for Euro 2020
WHEN Lorenzo Insigne is standing over a free-kick for Italy against Belgium on Friday night, he could dip into over 4,000 different ways to hurt the opposition.
The Italians have dazzled football fans with their quick, incisive attacking play this year at the Euros.
But it's not just a passing game they've excelled at. From dead balls Roberto Mancini's side have proved to be just as dangerous.
Prime example, Matteo Pessina's strike against Wales from a well-rehearsed free-kick with two stars standing in an offside position to confuse the Dragons' backline.
All these routines come from the mind of Gianni Vio, who reportedly has 4,830 to call upon and harm their rivals.
Over the years he has helped clubs including Leeds United, Brentford and AC Milan improve their set-pieces.
"Gianni used to fly down on Thursdays and leave on a Sunday. It was madness."
Astonishingly, Zenga's masterstroke was a success. 17 of Catania's 44 goals were scored from set-plays in a campaign that saw them escape relegation. Vio might as well have been playing upfront.
HELPING ITALY'S CAUSE
Perfectionist Mancini reached out to Vio last year - recognising the importance of set-pieces.
"I was contacted directly by Mancini," he said.
"We met up in Bologna, had a chat and shook hands. I started working (with the national team) last September."
The fruits of Vio's labour were clear to see in the Nations League game last September against Bosnia & Herzegovina.
As Insigne eyed up the free kick, Italy's stars formed two walls behind the opposition's wall.
Then, they walked back to an onside position, further bamboozling Bosnia's players.
READ MORE SUN STORIES
“Mancini knows this is a short, seven-game tournament and set pieces can help decide it,” Zenga said.
And if they do, and it brings the Euros back to Italy for the first time since 1968, it'll be thanks to a former banker.