Italy starts again with Mancini back
According to Tuttomercatoweb.
Why this matters
Roberto Mancini's return to the helm of the Italian national team is crucial, especially at a time when the Azzurri face significant challenges in the UEFA Nations League. With a strong group, which includes Belgium, France and Türkiye, the focus will be on avoiding relegation and restoring the fans' confidence. The combination of veterans and young players could be the key to reigniting enthusiasm around the national team.
Main conclusions
- Italy starts again with Mancini back.
- Mancini announces tomorrow the first squad for his second cycle in Italy.
- L'Italia riparte dal Mancini-bis: domani i conventi. The Azzurra list is likely.
Italy is preparing for the second era of Roberto Mancini at the helm of the national team. The new (and old) coach will announce the first squad of this cycle tomorrow, with his debut scheduled for September 25th in the Nations League, against Belgium. In a group with a high level of difficulty, which also includes France and Turkey, the immediate objective is to avoid relegation and, above all, to rekindle the enthusiasm around the Azzurri through positive football, at a time when the federation is experiencing troubled days. This context, it should be noted, does not call into question the validity of the coach's appointment, which must even be confirmed by a possible commissioner.
With four games in twenty days on the calendar, the list will be expanded (around 31 to 33 names) and constructed, in theory, for a 4-3-3, although Mancini will not close the door on a line of three central players, in line with recent trends in the Italian championship. The coach intends to maintain a core of experienced players, while integrating new blood. Even so, he will respect the work of the under-21 team led by Silvio Baldini: he will not remove key elements, with the exception of Michael Kayode, called up due to Marco Palestra's absence. Among others, Cissé, Koleosho, Palmisano, Daffara and Raimondo remain in the under-21s.
In goal, the hierarchy is defined: Donnarumma starts as a starter, with Vicario and Carnesecchi discussing the substitute position. There is room for a fourth young goalkeeper, coming from Serie A, with Pessina (Bologna) appointed to the place.
In the defensive sector, senators include Bastoni, Mancini, Di Lorenzo, Calafiori and Dimarco. Buongiorno will be left out, while Coppola, in good standing in Paris, has an open door. Ghilardi (Roma) appears with strong chances of debut, as does the aforementioned Kayode, and Udogie also arrives from the Premier League.
In midfield, Locatelli's absence is important, but there will be quality options: Barella, Tonali, Cristante and Frattesi are well placed. Fagioli's call (Fiorentina) is considered safe and this is the sector with the most news: Romano (Cagliari), recently 'redeemed' from the Swiss national team, and Issa Doumbia, formerly of Venezia and currently at Sporting, are in the pipeline.
On the wings and supporting the striker, Zaccagni is the only one with a guaranteed place. Bernardeschi has few setbacks towards the list, while Zaniolo will not be included in these accounts. It won't be Chiesa and Orsolini's moment yet and, barring a surprise, Gnonto won't advance either. Cambiaghi stands out as a strong candidate; Vergara and Politano compete for a place, with an advantage for the first, and Cancellieri deserves attention.
At the front, there are two certainties: Kean and Pio Esposito. Mateo Retegui, discovered by Mancini in the first pass, would be another safe name, but will be evaluated during internship. Raspadori should be included, as well as two young players: Samuele Inacio (confirmed) and Ali Zoma, Nuremberg's top scorer in the 2. Bundesliga and, probably, the main surprise of this squad.
Between prudence and ambition, Mancini wants to restore identity and joy to the Azzurri. The first list, to be released tomorrow, will reveal the extent to which the plan to mix veterans with emerging talent can return Italy to the competitiveness and spark that the new Nations League campaign demands.
What happens next
Tomorrow, Mancini will release his first squad, which should include around 31 to 33 players. The UEFA Nations League debut is scheduled for September 25, and the coach plans to implement a positive style of play. Careful management of the squad, respecting the work of the under-21 team, will be fundamental to the long-term success of the Azzurri.
Frequently asked questions
What is the date of Italy's next UEFA Nations League game?
Italy's UEFA Nations League debut is scheduled for September 25 against Belgium.
Who is the coach of the Italian national team currently?
The coach of the Italian national team is Roberto Mancini, who is back at the helm of the Azzurri.
What is Italy's goal in the UEFA Nations League?
Italy's immediate objective is to avoid relegation and rekindle enthusiasm around the team through positive football.
How many players will be called up for the Italian national team?
The roster will be expanded to around 31 to 33 names.
Who are the goalkeepers called up for the Italian national team?
The goalkeepers called up include Donnarumma
as a starter, with Vicario and Carnesecchi competing for the substitute spot.