Italy vs. France: Roberto Mancini Braces for a Surprise Rejection. However, One Final Unknown Remains

The Nations League is set to enter the final stretch of the group stage, and there’s no doubt that the most anticipated match of Thursday night is the one between Italy and France, scheduled for 8:45 p.m. at the “Giuseppe Meazza” Stadium in Milan. For the Azzurri, currently second in the standings in League A Group 1, this is an important opportunity to build on the strong performances shown in the two-game series against Turkey and in the draw against Les Bleus in Paris, and to renew their ambition of reaching the quarterfinals while avoiding any risks in their final away match in Belgium.

Roberto Mancini, as evident both from his statements at the press conference and during training sessions leading up to the match against the team led by another former world-class playmaker, Zinedine Zidane, seems to have few doubts regarding the tactical setup: From this perspective, a surprise omission is expected—that of Federico Dimarco, who is likely to start on the bench—while there remains a significant question mark regarding the two wingers who will support the team’s sole true center forward, Pio Esposito.

Pre-match indications point to Sebastiano Esposito and Cambiaghi as wingers in a 4-3-3 formation, but it’s not impossible that, in anticipation of an aggressive tactical approach by the visitors, the Azzurri head coach might decide at the last minute to opt for Liberali and Koleosho, who—despite their strong offensive qualities—can play more effectively in midfield, in a sort of disguised 4-5-1 formation.

As for the other positions, however, there should be very few doubts, starting with the irreplaceable Donnarumma in goal (for whom the head coach has asked—particularly the Milan fans who will be at San Siro—to put aside the goalkeeper’s controversial departure from the Rossoneri a few years ago). In defense, the four-man backline most frequently tested in training consists of Kayode, Bastoni, Scalvini, and Calafiori. The midfield, meanwhile, will rest on the shoulders of Frattesi, Tonali, and Barella.

Italy vs. France will be broadcast live on Rai 1 and streamed on RaiPlay. Alberto Rimedio will provide play-by-play commentary, with Daniele Adani offering technical analysis.