Mancini bets on youth: Cissè and co. head towards France and Belgium
The coach plans a blend of emerging talents and experienced returns for the final two Nations League matches. Amatucci poised for a breakthrough, while Zaniolo, Retegui and Cristante make their way back.
Roberto Mancini is about to announce his squad selection for the upcoming Nations League clashes against France and Belgium, signaling an intention to provide opportunities to a wave of players making waves in their respective competitions. Leading prospects include figures such as Alphadjo Cissè, Koleosho, Palestra, Piselli and Ghilardi, while Lorenzo Amatucci, midfielder at Deportivo, remains in contention for a call-up.
Alongside the new talent, the coach has greenlit the return of three players who had missed out on previous selections: Nicolò Zaniolo will come back after an extended absence (last appearance on March 24, 2024), Mateo Retegui returns having regained form and consistency, and Gianluca Cristante rounds out the experienced contingent. The squad list will comprise between 26 and 28 players, with several prospects promoted from the Under 21 setup.
Absent from the call-up are injured players and others Mancini has opted against including: among them Samuele Inacio, Zoma, Kean, Raspadori, Scamacca, Locatelli, Di Lorenzo, Buongiorno, Chiesa and Leoni. Ndour will continue his development at Under 21 level, while in defense an open competition persists between Lulli and Bartesaghi.