Italy arrived in Rome on Saturday morning and unlike four years ago, after a triumphant World Cup in Germany, there were not many fans waiting for them at Fiumicino airport.

The Azzurri endured a shocking early exit from the tournament in South Africa, finishing bottom of Group F. After their famous win over France in 2006, thousands of fans greeted the Italians in the Eternal City, but this time less than 100 supporters were on hand and many of them expressed their disappointment.

"There is a lot of bitterness," said Italy forward Fabio Quagliarella. "It's understandable. We have said sorry to our fans. Now we must construct an Italy side that is always strong."