Mancini expected to start with Italy against North Macedonia

Roma will have to bear with the absences of several key players including Nicolo Znaiolo, Lorenzo Pellegrini, Bryan Cristante and Gianluca Mancini, all away on international duty with the Italian national team.

Ahead of a crucial play-off game against Portugual, Italy’s coach Roberto Mancini will use the upcoming North Macedonia showdown as an opportunity to test a few line-ups.


According to Il Messaggero, Roma’s Gianluca Mancini is expected to start in a four-man backline alongside Inter’s Alessandro Bastoni, with Florenzi and Emerson on the flanks.

In the meantime, Lorenzo Pellegrini is likely to come on as a direct substitute to Lorenzo Insigne.

Cristante and Zaniolo will also start off the bench.