How are Italy shaping up ahead of the Nations League kick-off?

Azzurri looking to bounce back after missing World Cup

It’s been a painful summer for Italy, who had to watch the World Cup from home after failing to qualify for the first time in 50 years.

But they’ll be looking to return to glory under Roberto Mancini. The former Manchester City boss has taken charge of three games so far, overseeing a win against Saudi Arabia, a draw with the Netherlands and a loss to France.

Italy are 8/11 favourites to start their Nations League campaign with a home win against Poland this week. The Coral News Team have taken a look at how they’re preparing…

A new era

Mancini hasn’t called up Gianluigi Buffon or Daniele De Rossi for these games, while Juventus defender Andrea Barzagli retired from international duty after the shock World Cup play-off defeat to Sweden.

That means the squad has a much younger look about it, with Alessio Cragno, Manuel Lazzari, Cristiano Biraghi and Nicolo Zaniolo all receiving their first call-ups. Pietro Pellegri was also included, but the young forward had to return to Monaco with an injury.

Mancini is likely to make Jorginho and Lorenzo Insigne key figures of the side too, after they were strangely overlooked by his predecessor Gian Piero Ventura.

Playing time problems

There’s plenty of talent in the squad, but Mancini is concerned that they don’t see enough action at their clubs. He’s called on Serie A clubs to show more “courage” and give their youngsters a chance.

Zaniolo has never made a league appearance for Roma, yet he’s been included in the senior squad.