Noah Rosenstein
Updated on: October 7, 2024 10:27 pm GMT
Italy’s National Team Prepares for Key Nations League Clash Against France
Italy is gearing up for a significant matchup against France in the Nations League group stage, scheduled for Friday, September 8, 2024. The Azzurri’s coach, Luciano Spalletti, has announced that Sandro Tonali will start in central midfield, marking his return to international play following a 10-month suspension due to a betting scandal. With the match taking place in France, the pressure is on the Italian squad to deliver a strong performance against their fierce rivals.
According to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport, Alessandro Bastoni will be rested for this match as he has just recovered from a minor muscle issue. His absence may be felt as Italy faces a formidable French side. Tonali’s inclusion is a significant development, given that he has recently made two appearances for Newcastle United since returning from his ban.
Squad Decisions Ahead of the Match
In preparation for the match, Spalletti conducted a training session at Coverciano, Italy’s training facility. During the session, he evaluated various defensive combinations, testing players like Gatti, Calafiori, and Buongiorno in central defense. Federico Dimarco and Andrea Cambiaso were also assessed for wing-back roles, with Giovanni Di Lorenzo possibly stepping in for Cambiaso on the right side.
The squad is expected to feature Gigio Donnarumma in goal, with a solid defensive lineup behind him. However, the tactical setup remains fluid as Spalletti continues to explore his options leading up to the game.
Tactical Lineup and Expected Starters
The likely starting XI against France will include the following players:
- Goalkeeper: Gigio Donnarumma
- Defenders: Gatti, Buongiorno, Calafiori, and either Cambiaso or Di Lorenzo
- Midfielders: Ricci, Pellegrini, and Tonali
- Forwards: Retegui with Zaccagni (or Kean, Raspadori) alongside him
Mateo Retegui, the Atalanta striker, has been a focal point in the attack, though he did not train with all of his teammates recently. His potential absence creates further uncertainty in the lineup as Italy aims for a balanced and effective charge against one of Europe’s strongest squads.
Tonali’s Return to Form
After his prolonged suspension, Sandro Tonali’s return to the Italian national team is both a narrative of redemption and a critical asset for Spalletti’s tactical plans. Newcastle fans welcomed Tonali back enthusiastically, reflecting the player’s importance not just to his club but also to the national team setup.
His ability to control the midfield could prove essential in Italy’s strategy against the French, known for their skillful play and quick counter-attacking capabilities. Experts anticipate that Tonali, alongside Samuele Ricci and Lorenzo Pellegrini, could create a formidable partnership that may unsettle the French midfield.
France: A Stalwart Adversary
The French squad, known for its depth of talent and tactical prowess, poses a significant challenge for Italy. Led by experienced players, France is expected to put forth a strong performance against the Azzurri, emphasizing their capability to dominate possession and create scoring opportunities. This match is not just a test for the players but also a crucial early indicator of the teams’ form heading into the later stages of the Nations League.
Italy’s matchup against France will not be only a game of national pride but also a strategic encounter where both coaches will need to adapt their plans according to the flow of the game.
Next Steps After France
Following the game in France, Italy will turn their focus to their next Nations League fixture against Israel on Monday, September 11, 2024. It is anticipated that various players, including Bastoni, will play a more significant role in that match, depending on their performances in the upcoming game against France.
As the Azzurri prepare for this important clash, fans eagerly await to see how Spalletti’s strategies unfold and how the players adapt to the pressures of international competition amid a demanding schedule.
The result of this match will affect not just the Nations League standings but also how confident Italy feels as they go through an important time in international football with Coach Spalletti leading the way.
