Four years ago, we witnessed an Italian national side grind it's way through 7 matches and eventually claim it's 4th World Cup title. What was interesting about this special squad above everything else was that all 23 of their players were based at Italian clubs, a feat that no other national super power could emulate. The only other side who posted a squad comprised of domestic based players was Saudi Arabia. This interesting fact was touched upon by a few pundits and commentators as perhaps having a definite impact upon Italian success. Although the 23 did not all play at the same club, playing at home seemed to offer a better sense of understanding between the players and possibly better comradery.
