Capello believes that the defeat and poor performance against Bosnia and Herzegovina are not an exception, but a realistic picture of the state of the national team.
"Unfortunately, Italian football is what we saw in Zenica. It's enough to look at the Champions League, that's where the real level is seen. And the answer is clear."
He adds that it is alarming that Italy failed to qualify even with the expanded format of the World Cup.
"Three consecutive failures mean that the disease is not cured."
Unlike many who emphasize the physical or mental component, Capello is clear: the problem is technical.
"Here, we walk or jog lightly. In other countries, they sprint. The speed of passing, ball control—we do it too slowly for the international level."
In other words, the national team is a mirror of Serie A. Capello particularly criticizes youth development.
"The biggest problem is in the youth categories. Twelve-year-olds are making plays; that's wrong. First, they must learn technique."
He emphasizes that there is a lack of proper football coaches.
"You can't teach if you don't know how to play yourself. A coach must show how to shoot, pass, and head the ball."
As an example of better practice, he cites the Spanish national football team.
"There, children constantly play in schools. They have a culture of technique like the rondo. That's the foundation. Here, it's considered a waste of time."
Can Italy make a comeback? Capello does not offer a simple solution.
"A new coach can do little. He must be lucky enough to find the right group and fit them together. The truth is, quality is lacking."