Italy’s Lineup Against France: Calafiori and Tonali Set to Start in Nations League Clash
On Thursday, Italy welcomes France to Milan’s San Siro stadium for Matchday 5 of the 2026-2027 UEFA Nations League. Roberto Mancini’s squad aims to be the first side to beat Zinédine Zidane’s French team this season. Italy previously halted France’s perfect run with a 1-1 draw at Stade de France during the last international break, where Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni equalized after Michael Olise opened the scoring.
Predicted Starting XI Features Premier League Players
Manchester City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma is expected to guard Italy’s net in a familiar stadium, having played for Milan earlier in his career. Defensively, Mancini plans to depend on Arsenal’s Riccardo Calafiori and Brentford’s Michael Kayode to cover the flanks. The midfield will showcase experience through players like Davide Frattesi, Nicolo Barella, and Sandro Tonali.
The forward line contrasts with youth and limited international exposure; Nicolo Cambiaghi, Pio Esposito, and Sebastiano Esposito, collectively holding only 18 caps, are likely to start up front against France.
Probable Italy Lineup vs France
- Goalkeeper: Gianluigi Donnarumma
- Defenders: Riccardo Calafiori, Alessandro Bastoni, Giorgio Scalvini, Michael Kayode
- Midfielders: Nicolo Barella, Sandro Tonali, Davide Frattesi
- Forwards: Nicolo Cambiaghi, Pio Esposito, Sebastiano Esposito
