2026-2027 Nations League: Italy vs. Turkey, Probable Lineups

Monday’s Nations League Group A schedule features a match between Italy and Turkey at 8:45 p.m. Roberto Mancini’s Azzurri, who will face Akturkoglu and his teammates at the Renato Dall’Ara Stadium in Bologna, are looking to build on their strong performances in the last two games.

For Italy, we could see nine changes from the starting lineup that drew against France in the last round: the only players expected to retain their spots are Donnarumma and Bastoni. Di Lorenzo is favored over Kayode, and Ruggeri is expected to take Calafiori’s place; in midfield, Barella and Romano return to the starting lineup, and young Doumbia is expected to make his debut. Moise Kean has already returned to Como following an injury; Scamacca will play in his place, flanked by Vergara and Maldini.

Vincenzo Montella absolutely must get his team back on track: after the defeat against Italy (4-1), another heavy loss followed against Belgium (3-0). The fans have lost patience and, as early as the match against the Azzurri on September 28, they chanted against the Milan coach, demanding his resignation.

For Monday night’s match, Montella has opted for a 4-2-3-1 formation. Cakir will be in goal, with Celik, Demiral, Kabak, and Kadioglu in front of him. Yuksek and Özkan will play in midfield with the task of containing Italy’s attacks, while further up the field, Aydin, Akgun, and Akturkoglu will play behind lone striker Gul.

Probable Lineups
ITALY (4-3-3): Donnarumma; Di Lorenzo, Mancini, Bastoni, Ruggeri; Barella, Romano, Doumbia; Vergara, Scamacca, Maldini. Head Coach: Mancini
TURKEY (4-2-3-1): Cakir; Celik, Demiral, Kabak, Kadioglu; Yuksek, Özkan; Aydin, Akgun, Akturkoglu; Gul. Head Coach: Montella