Italy’s national team coach Luciano Spalletti has called up Nicolò Zaniolo to replace Lorenzo Pellegrini for the upcoming Nations League match against Israel. This decision comes after Pellegrini received a red card in the closing minutes of the first half during Italy’s 2-2 draw with Belgium.
Pellegrini’s dismissal not only disrupted Italy’s dominant performance up to that point but also means he will be unavailable for the team’s fourth group stage match scheduled for Monday evening in Udine against Israel. Israel, for their part, suffered a 4-1 defeat to France in Budapest yesterday.
Zaniolo, who can play as both a midfielder and forward, recently joined Atalanta from Galatasaray after spending the last season on loan at Aston Villa in England. The 24-year-old has made five appearances for Atalanta this season after overcoming an early physical issue. These include three Serie A matches and two Champions League games, all as a substitute. His most notable contribution so far has been providing the decisive assist for Samardzic’s equalizer in the 1-1 draw against Bologna in Serie A.
The Italian national team is set to hold another training session this afternoon as they prepare for the crucial match against Israel. Spalletti will be hoping that Zaniolo can seamlessly integrate into the squad and potentially make an impact similar to his recent club performances.
