The Italian national team, under the guidance of Luciano Spalletti, is set to face France in their opening match of the Nations League on Friday at the Stade de France in Saint Denis. This encounter comes after Italy’s disappointing exit from the European Championship at the round of 16 stage. Both nations are part of a group that also includes Belgium and Israel.
Spalletti has introduced several new faces to the Italian squad, including Leicester City defender Caleb Okoli and Atalanta midfielder Marco Brescianini. Former AC Milan player Sandro Tonali, now with Newcastle United, makes a return to the national team and is expected to start. Moise Kean, who has been in good form for Fiorentina, has also been called up after being absent since November 2023.
France, on the other hand, boass a formidable lineup led by superstar Kylian Mbappé. They also have Marcus Thuram at their disposal, who is in excellent form following a strong start to the season with Inter Milan, including a recent brace against Atalanta. However, Thuram is likely to start on the bench, with Griezmann and Dembélé expected to feature in the starting eleven.
Probable lineups:
France (4-2-3-1): Maignan; Clauss, Saliba, Upamecano, Theo Hernandez; Fofana, Kanté; Kolo Muani, Olise, Barcola; Mbappé. Manager: Deschamps.
Italy (3-5-2): Donnarumma; Di Lorenzo, Bastoni, Calafiori; Bellanova, Frattesi, Ricci, Tonali, Dimarco; Retegui, Raspadori. Manager: Spalletti.
