Roberto Mancini explains why he chose this particular Italy front three for the Nations League semi-final against Spain. ‘All three can exchange places.’
The Nations League semi-final kicks off at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT).
You can follow the build-up and action as it happens on the LIVEBLOG.
“The sensations are good, as they always are before an important and wonderful game like this,” the coach told RAI Sport on the pitch at San Siro.
There were some doubts over who would start in the 4-3-3 formation, as Ciro Immobile and Andrea Belotti are injured, leaving only inexperienced Giacomo Raspadori and Moise Kean.
Instead, Mancini has chosen Lorenzo Insigne, Federico Chiesa and it looks like Federico Bernardeschi is initially the False 9.
“We already played like this in other occasions and did well, all three can exchange places and don’t give any reference points to the opposition defenders.”
This is the first meeting for Italy and Spain since the UEFA EURO 2020 semi-final, which had to be decided on penalties in July.
“It’s a different moment certainly, as then we were both coming off five very tiring matches. Spain are always one of the best on a technical level and I hope it’ll be a very entertaining game, then may the best man win.
“I really hope it will be an enjoyable match for everyone watching.”
Tra poco #ItaliaSpagna, semifinale di #NationsLeague – ⏰ 20:35 @RaiUno
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— RaiSport (@RaiSport) October 6, 2021