Italian National Team EURO 2024: Squad and Prospects

Italian National Team EURO 2024

The Italian National Team has a storied history in the UEFA European Championship. Known for their tactical brilliance and defensive solidity, Italy has won the EURO Championship twice, in 1968 and most recently in 2020. As the Azzurri prepare for EURO 2024, fans are eager to see if they can replicate their past successes and lift the trophy once again.

Squad for EURO 2024

The Italian National Team has announced a strong squad for EURO 2024, blending experienced players with emerging talents. Below is the list of players called up for the tournament:

  • Goalkeepers:
    • Gianluigi Donnarumma
    • Alex Meret
    • Ivan Provedel
    • Guglielmo Vicario
  • Defenders:
    • Alessandro Bastoni
    • Raoul Bellanova
    • Alessandro Buongiorno
    • Riccardo Calafiori
    • Andrea Cambiaso
    • Matteo Darmian
    • Federico Dimarco
    • Giovanni Di Lorenzo
    • Federico Gatti
    • Gianluca Mancini
  • Midfielders:
    • Nicolo Barella
    • Bryan Cristante
    • Nicolo Fagioli
    • Michael Folorunsho
    • Davide Frattesi
    • Jorginho
    • Lorenzo Pellegrini
    • Samuele Ricci
  • Forwards:
    • Federico Chiesa
    • Stephan El Shaarawy
    • Riccardo Orsolini
    • Giacomo Raspadori
    • Mateo Retegui
    • Gianluca Scamacca
    • Mattia Zaccagni

Key Players

The Italian National Team boasts a roster filled with top-tier talent. Among the standout players are:

Gianluigi Donnarumma (Goalkeeper): The Paris Saint-Germain shot-stopper remains a pivotal figure for Italy. Known for his heroics in the EURO 2020 final, Donnarumma’s presence between the sticks offers the team a sense of security and confidence.

Alessandro Bastoni (Defender): The Inter Milan center-back has grown into one of the most reliable defenders in Serie A. His ability to read the game and strong defensive skills make him crucial for Italy’s backline.

Nicolo Barella (Midfielder): An integral part of Inter Milan’s midfield, Barella is known for his work rate, vision, and passing ability. His performances will be key in orchestrating play from the middle of the park.

Federico Chiesa (Forward): Juventus’ dynamic winger, Chiesa, has the ability to change the game with his pace, dribbling, and eye for goal. He will be a significant attacking threat for Italy.

Head Coach: Luciano Spalletti

Luciano Spalletti took over the reins of the Italian National Team following Roberto Mancini’s departure. Spalletti, known for his tactical acumen and recent success with Napoli, where he won the Scudetto, brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the team. His appointment has generated optimism, and his ability to integrate new talents with seasoned veterans will be crucial for Italy’s success in EURO 2024

Potential Breakthrough Players

  • Gianluca Scamacca (Forward): The Atalanta striker has shown immense potential with his physical presence and finishing skills. Scamacca could be a surprise package in the tournament.

Expected XI

As Italy prepares for EURO 2024, Luciano Spalletti is expected to field a strong starting XI, leveraging a mix of experience and youthful talent. The possible formation will be 3-4-2-1 (Donnarumma; Di Lorenzo, Buongiorno, Bastoni; Bellanova, Barella, Jorginho, Dimarco; Pellegrini, Chiesa; Raspadori)

Group Stage Analysis

Italy finds itself in a challenging group for EURO 2024, facing Albania, Croatia, and Spain. Each of these teams presents a unique challenge:

  • Albania: Often seen as underdogs, Albania can be a tricky opponent with their physical style and defensive resilience.
  • Croatia: Known for their technical ability and experience, Croatia will be one of the toughest opponents in the group, boasting a squad filled with world-class talent.
  • Spain: Traditionally one of the strongest teams in Europe, Spain’s possession-based football and attacking prowess will test Italy’s defensive solidity.

Standings provided by Sofascore

Italy’s group stage matches will be pivotal in setting the tone for their campaign. The blend of Spalletti’s tactical knowledge and the team’s talent pool will be key in navigating these challenges and advancing to the knockout stages

Conclusion

As the Italian National Team prepares for EURO 2024, the blend of experienced veterans and emerging talents gives them a strong chance of competing for the title. With a history of success in the tournament, Italy will aim to add another chapter to their illustrious EURO legacy.