National Team: Roberto Mancini Receives a Clear Message: “He’s Already Ready”

After failing to qualify for the World Cup for the third consecutive time, Italy is currently conducting an in-depth evaluation of new players to incorporate into the team’s plans. Head coach Roberto Mancini is closely monitoring every development coming from the clubs: one of the most significant comes from Milan and concerns Alphadjo Cissé, one of the most talked-about young players of the moment, who has scored in a friendly against Manchester United and in league matches against Torino and Juventus.

At a press conference in Milanello, Ruben Amorim painted a very clear picture of the talent of the 2006-born player: “If he were called up to the national team, he wouldn’t have any problems—he’s already ready,” said the Portuguese coach, responding to a specific question about a possible call-up from Coach Mancini. He certainly needs more time to complete his development, but he doesn’t lack personality. He’s always asking for the ball and isn’t shy on the field; however, I’ll say it again, we’ll see his full potential over time.”

Cissé, born in Treviso to parents originally from Guinea, isn’t the only hot prospect for the Italian national team: in recent days, Alessandro Romano announced his decision to declare himself eligible for the Italian national team, opting out of Switzerland—for whom he had played up to the Under-20 level—while, conversely, Nicolò Tresoldi has chosen to focus on Germany, convinced he can carve out a role with the Mannschaft.

The time for evaluations is nearly up: the national team will return to the field between late September and mid-November in Group 1 of League A of the Nations League (Italy vs. Belgium on September 25 will kick off the series, which will conclude with the rematch on November 15), and in 2027, the Azzurri will embark on the Euro 2028 qualifying campaign. These are crucial matches for regaining the confidence that was inevitably lost on that bitter night in Zenica.