The Azzurri will start their UEFA Nations League campaign on Saturday night as it is Italy vs Germany in Bologna. Italy are in transition, and Mancini is trying to rejuvenate the squad in the coming years. After losing out on this year’s World Cup qualification, Italy plan to assemble a talented group of players that will help them in the future. They will be coming into this game after a disappointing 3-0 loss to Argentina in Finalissima.
Italy have a busy schedule ahead, so they will have to start afresh. The Azzurri will have to keep their disappointing run on their back and focus on the coming games. So, a Nations League trophy will be a step in the right direction. But they face one of the best opponents in their first match as Germany have a formidable squad. They also have a new manager, Hansi Flick will prepare them well for the Qatar World Cup.
Italy vs Germany UEFA Nations League: team news, tactics, and prediction
Mancini will bring Bastoni into the lineup and make some changes in the front three. Insigne could come back in the lineup, and Scamacca can start in place of Belotti, who looked out of touch against Argentina. Italy will have to work hard in the center of the pitch as Germany has one of the best midfield in Europe. Locatelli could get a start as he looked good after coming from the bench against Argentina. Barella will hold his place, and Tonali can get a chance ahead of Jorginho as well.
Germany would like to give a chance to Musiala and Schlotterbeck a chance in the lineup. While experienced players like Muller and Neuer will be the regular starters. Also, with the pace of Sane, Havertz, and Werner, Germany will be lethal on the break.
Prediction
With Mancini still unsure about his starting 11 and some key players missing, Germany could take advantage in this tie.
Italy 1-2 Germany.
