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

Italy returns to San Siro for a crucial match in the Nations League. On Thursday evening at 8:45 p.m., the Azzurri host France on Matchday 5 of the group stage, aiming to move closer to qualifying for the next round. Roberto Mancini’s team currently sits in second place with seven points, three behind France, which leads the standings.

Mancini appears set to stick with the 4-3-3 formation, with Donnarumma in goal and a defensive line consisting of Kayode, Scalvini, Bastoni, and Calafiori. Frattesi, Tonali, and Barella are expected to start in midfield, while up front the Esposito brothers—Sebastiano and Pio—are likely to start alongside Cambiaghi.

France is also expected to line up in a 4-3-3 formation. Zidane will have to do without some key players, including Mbappé, Thuram, and Dembélé. Maignan will be in goal, protected by Zaire-Emery, Jacquet, Upamecano, and Truffert. In midfield, Cherki, Da Cunha, and Rabiot will start, while the attacking trio is expected to consist of Olise, Doué, and Barcola. Mbappé is out with a minor injury.

PROBABLE LINEUPS

ITALY (4-3-3): Donnarumma; Kayode, Scalvini, Bastoni, Calafiori; Frattesi, Tonali, Barella; S. Esposito, P. Esposito, Cambiaghi. Head Coach: Mancini.

FRANCE (4-3-3): Maignan; Zaire-Emery, Jacquet, Upamecano, Truffert; Cherki, Da Cunha, Rabiot; Olise, Doué, Barcola. Head Coach: Zidane.