- Legendary Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon was reduced to tears after their failure
- Germany boss Joachim Low believes the tournament is lessened without the Italians
Germany manager Joachim Low is saddened by Italy's failure to Qualify for next summer's World Cup, saying there will be 'something missing' in their absence.
Low also praised Italy player Daniele De Rossi, who refused to come off the bench during their Goalless Draw against Sweden on Monday night because he believed they needed another striker on the pitch.
Italy drew 0-0 with Sweden at the San Siro in Milan, meaning they failed to qualify after losing the first leg 1-0 in Stockholm. It is the first time since 1958 Italy have failed to reach the World Cup.
Germany manager Joachim Low admitted he was saddened Italy hand't made the World Cup
Dejected Italy players at the end of their goalless draw with Sweden which ended their hopes
Low, speaking after Germany drew 2-2 with France in their latest friendly on Tuesday night, believes the failure of Italy - and Chile - to make it lessens the tournament.
He said: 'We can't influence the draw, everything can happen. In Italy's case, I congratulate the Swedes. I saw the game, they defended well and gave everything.
'But I think it's sad for Italy, because for such a big tournament [it's a shame]. If Germany or France or even Brazil or Argentina [failed to qualify], for me there is something missing without the Italian team.
'It's also sad that Chile didn't qualify, they didn't manage it. For Italy though, it is kind of a chance for a new beginning. Some of their players are ending their career.
'I have the biggest respect for those players, that played not only for Juventus, but also those that played in the national team.
'Gianluigi Buffon - biggest respect. [Leonardo] Bonucci or also [Daniele] De Rossi or the others. That's pure class.'
His comments about De Rossi were especially interesting given the Roma midfielder argued with Italy coach Giampiero Ventura when asked to come on as a substitute.
