Italy without seven internationals for match against Turkey in Bologna
Roberto Mancini omitted seven from the last squad; 18-year-old Samuele Inacio receives his first senior call-up and Esposito will wear number 9.
Italy will be without seven players for their Nations League match against Turkey in Bologna on 5 October 2026, coach Roberto Mancini confirmed as he finalised the squad for this round of fixtures.
Key absences and a first senior call-up
Mancini left out Massimo Pessina, Edi Kouadio, Daniele Ghilardi, Diego Coppola, Samuele Ricci, Rolando Mandragora and Mohamed Ali Zoma from the group that featured in the previous meeting with Turkey. In addition, Moise Kean has returned to club duty after leaving the national team camp because of the injury he suffered in the 1-1 draw with France.
For the first time Samuele Inacio, 18, has been included in the senior squad after not being part of the group for the previous three matches. With Kean absent, the number 9 shirt will go to Francesco Pio Esposito.
The call-up mix reflects the congested international calendar and Mancini's rotation policy following a strong away performance against the same opponent. Italy host Turkey in Bologna tonight as the Nations League campaign continues.
With squad changes and fresh faces, Mancini will have to balance experience and youth as he prepares his team for a home test that could influence Italy's standing in the group.
Photo: press material from the event
