Mancini names several teenagers in 31-man Italy squad for France and Belgium
Several teenage prospects — including Alfadžo Sise and Matija Liberali — were included in the 31-man Italy squad for fixtures against France and Belgium.
Roberto Mancini has unveiled a 31-man Italy squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures against France and Belgium, selecting several teenage prospects for the senior group on November 6, 2026.
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The list includes 20-year-old attacking midfielder Alfadžo Sise, currently Milan's leading scorer; 17-year-old midfielder Riccardo Casano, who has yet to make his first-team debut for Como; 18-year-old forward Simone Lontani, the top scorer at Parma; and 19-year-old attacking midfielder Matija Liberali, who produced one goal and two assists in 32 minutes during Como's 9-1 win over Lens in the Champions League.
Mancini's decision to call up young players highlights his readiness to test fresh options ahead of high-profile Nations League ties. The coach named a full 31-man roster for the two matches, leaving room for both established internationals and newcomers.
Italy face France and Belgium in the next round of Nations League fixtures, and the inclusion of teenagers in the squad suggests Mancini is balancing immediate competitive needs with a longer-term look at the national team pool.
The squad announcement was made on November 6, 2026; the selection gives the youngsters a chance to train and potentially make senior debuts in one of Europe's top international competitions.
Photo: press material from the event
