Italy squad for UEFA EURO 2024: Who’s in and who’s out, Key players and Predicted lineup

What you can expect from Italy in Euro 2024?

Italy wouldn’t do it again or would they? The Azzurri stunned England at Wembley to win Euro 2020 and now aim for another trophy in Germany this summer. Italy remains a team to watch despite missing out on World Cup qualification.

Luciano Spalletti – The mastermind behind Napoli’s stunning Serie A title win is now at the helm. He replaced Roberto Mancini who surprisingly left to coach Saudi Arabia. Spalletti guided Italy through a tough qualification by narrowly beating Ukraine to secure their spot.

Italy’s current squad isn’t as strong as Spalletti’s Napoli or Mancini’s Euro-winning team. There are serious questions about their offensive firepower. Yet, the defense and midfield have a mix of experience and talent that can surprise any opponent.

Gianluigi Donnarumma will be crucial in goal. In defense – Leonardo Bonucci and Alessandro Bastoni will lead. The midfield will rely on Jorginho’s control and Nicolo Barella’s energy. Up front – Federico Chiesa and Ciro Immobile will need to find their scoring boots.

Italy’s road to retaining their title won’t be easy and Spalletti must maximize his squad’s potential to go all the way.

The Azzurri are looking to shine again but there have been many ups and downs in recent years. Let’s break down their squad.

Goalkeepers

Gigi Donnarumma is still Italy’s top goalkeeper. He remains crucial despite some shaky moments at Paris Saint-Germain. Italy #1 was the hero of Euro 2020 as he won the Player of the Tournament.

However, if he gets injured, Italy could struggle. Alex Meret and Guglielmo Vicario have limited experience making Donnarumma’s health vital.

Defenders

Giovanni Di Lorenzo Spalletti’s trusted captain from Napoli will be key. Whether at right-back or centre-back he is a leader. Inter’s Federico Dimarco and Alessandro Bastoni are likely starters. While Francesco Acerbi’s injury opens the door for others. Alessandro Buongiorno could step up after a strong performance against Ukraine. Gianluca Mancini and Riccardo Calafiori are in the mix too.

Destiny Udogie’s injury means Andrea Cambiaso gets a chance. On the right, Matteo Darmian offers experience but Raoul Bellanova might start given his impressive form.

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Midfielders

Jorginho’s comeback at Arsenal is great news. He’ll anchor the midfield for sure. Nicolo Barella brings energy and goals (hopefully). Spalletti’s formation choice whether 4-3-3 or 3-4-2-1 will determine the setup. While Lorenzo Pellegrini is versatile and in top form. Davide Frattesi has a knack for scoring for Italy which could earn him a starting spot.

Despite his betting ban, Nicolo Fagioli is back. Bryan Cristante was expected to join and Michael Folorunsho is a surprise addition after a solid season with Verona.

Forwards

One can say that Italy’s attack is their weak point. They lack a top-class striker, while their main striker, Gianluca Scamacca, has one goal in 15 appearances. Mateo Retegui- the naturalized Argentinian, shows promise with four goals in seven games.

Federico Chiesa needs to find his Euro 2020 form if Italy are up to something. Stephan El Shaarawy must prove his worth. Mattia Zaccagni could be the dark horse, ready to make an impact.

Predicted Lineup for Italy in Euro 2024

Italy are gearing up for Euro 2024 and the lineup looks promising. Let’s break down the expected XI.

Gigi Donnarumma is the clear choice in goal. He’s been solid and reliable.

In defence, we expect a three-man setup. Giovanni Di Lorenzo and Alessandro Bastoni will be key players. Alessandro Buongiorno is likely to join them, adding strength and stability.

The midfield will have Nicolo Barella and Jorginho. They bring control and creativity, while Lorenzo Pellegrini is also a sure pick contributing both offensively and defensively. Federico Dimarco and Raoul Bellanova will operate on the flanks providing width and pace.

Up front – Federico Chiesa will take his preferred left-wing spot if he stays fit. Gianluca Scamacca is in good form and is likely to lead the attack.

Italy Predicted XI (3-4-2-1): Donnarumma; Di Lorenzo, Buongiorno, Bastoni; Bellanova, Barella, Jorginho, Dimarco; Pellegrini, Chiesa; Scamacca.

Players missing for Italy in UEFA Euro 2024

Italy will miss some key players at Euro 2024. Let’s look at who won’t be making the trip to Germany.

Sandro Tonali’s 10-month suspension for illegal betting is a big blow. The Newcastle midfielder was expected to start and his absence is a huge loss for Italy’s midfield.

Domenico Berardi is out due to a serious Achilles injury. The Sassuolo winger played a crucial role in Euro 2020 but will miss this tournament.

Francesco Acerbi is sidelined with a groin problem and his absence leaves a gap in defense. Giorgio Scalvini could have been his potential replacement but he also misses out due to an ACL tear.

Destiny Udogie is another key player missing out. The Tottenham left-back underwent thigh surgery and won’t play until next season. Nicolo Zaniolo who is on loan at Aston Villa will be out with a foot injury.

Marco Verratti – The Euro 2020 hero is not in the squad due to fitness issues and his move to Qatar. Leonardo Spinazzola also misses out, as he is still struggling with injuries.

Ivan Provedel, Samuele Ricci, and Riccardo Orsolini were in the provisional squad but didn’t make the final cut.

Also Read: A tactical preview for Italy National Football Team playing in EURO 2024