Mancini: Esposito and Kean Could Start Together for Italy

Roberto Mancini confirmed Francesco Pio Esposito and Moise Kean might start in Italy's match against Belgium tomorrow. "I hope to make the right choices," he stated.

The game is scheduled for Friday at 19:45 UK time (20:45 CEST) at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome. The Nations League Group A also includes France and Turkiye under Vincenzo Montella.

Mancini returns to lead the national team after winning the EURO 2020 title and his subsequent departure in the summer of 2023. He acknowledged the upcoming match will be emotional, citing past significant achievements at the stadium and a desire for more success.

Reflecting on past disappointments, including missing the 2022 and 2026 World Cups, Mancini noted, "Unfortunately, this is football; you can lose games sometimes in absurd fashion. But the good thing about the sport is that it gives you an opportunity to make up for it immediately. We must keep it in mind, but then focus on the future."

The squad features new players such as Cagliari midfielder Alessandro Romano and Brentford right-back Michael Kayode. However, Mancini cautioned against rapid squad changes, stating, "We had only two training sessions, as Monday was recovery work. We got to know a couple of lads a little better, who we had only seen when scouting, and that certainly helped to get to understand them."

While a 4-3-3 formation is anticipated, uncertainties remain regarding the starting lineup, particularly in the forward positions. Rumors suggest Kean could play alongside Pio Esposito, rather than competing for a single centre-forward spot.

"Yes, it's possible," Mancini concluded. "We have many possibilities and the lads are eager, so I hope to make the right choices."