Mancini updates Italy squad ahead of Nations League — Cyprus Mail
In Italy, national football team head coach Roberto Mancini has called up nine newcomers to the squad ahead of UEFA Nations League matches against Belgium, Turkey and France. This will be his first match since returning to the post of national team coach, Cyprus Mail reports.
Nine debutants
Mancini explained that he decided not to call up some experienced footballers in order to better assess young players and build a strong team for the future. According to him, the national team has four matches to play, so the coach wants to see more players on the pitch.
The coach noted that the team needs to quickly understand the players' capabilities and determine what they can offer the national team in the future. Mancini also said that past failures should not define the team's further work, although fans have the right to be dissatisfied with its results.
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Match against Belgium and squad changes
Italy will play their first match since Mancini returned as national team coach on Friday in Rome against Belgium. He described the Belgians as a difficult opponent and stressed the need to win the opening game.
The Italian Football Federation confirmed personnel changes due to injuries. Inter defender Federico Dimarco has withdrawn from the squad and has been replaced by Aston Villa's Matteo Ruggeri. Earlier, Roma midfielder Bryan Cristante was replaced by Como's Samuele Ricci.
