How Italy could line up in their first match

Italy may not be anyone’s favourites for lifting the Euros this summer, but the Azzurri are the only team to win all their qualification matches leading up to the showpiece event. Italy scored 37 goals and conceded just four in their 10 matches, which included mind blowing results such as 9-1 vs Armenia, 5-0 and 6-0 vs Liechtenstein to name a few.

Probable Lineup: Gianluigi Donnarumma; Alessandro Florenzi, Leonardo Bonucci, Giorgio Chiellini, Leonardo Spinazzola; Manuel Locatelli, Marco Verratti, Nicolo Barella; Federico Bernardeschi/Federico Chiesa, Ciro Immobile, Lorenzo Insigne

Defence: This has been the Italian side’s biggest strength throughout their history. They have the likes of Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci in their squad, but they are in their mid-30s now. Their full backs are quite attack minded, which could act as a bonus but can also hinder their slow centre backs. Franceso Acerbi is a more than capable option at centre back. Moreover, Gianluigi Donnarumma is a great shot stopper. If their defence can be solid, they have a great chance to surprise their doubters in the upcoming Euros.

Midfield: The Italian midfield will decide the fate of their campaign. Marco Verratti is undoubtedly their star player and will play a pivotal role in pulling the strings in midfield. But he lacks quality partners around him in the centre of the pitch. Manuel Locatelli, Nicolo Barella and Lorenzo Pellegrini are the front runners to occupy the remaining two berths in midfield. Their midfield choices are all in the same age bracket could find it hard against quality oppositions.

Attack: Ciro Immobile is expected to lead the line for Roberto Mancini’s side. He has been scoring goals for fun during the last few Serie A campaigns. They will be spoilt for choice while selecting the two wingers out of a barrage of options like Federico Bernardeschi, Lorenzo Insigne, Federico Chiesa and Domenico Berardi. Andrea Belotti is a fantastic alternative for the number 9 spot. They have scored more than 3 goals per game during the Euro qualifiers, which should indicate a very confident attacking unit.