Zidane names Mbappé-less France XI for Italy clash

The French national team’s technical staff has officially revealed the starting eleven for the first home match under head coach Zinedine Zidane. The squad is set to face historic rival Italy in a high-profile encounter at Stade de France.

France's tactical setup without Mbappé

Les Bleus enter this fixture with confidence following two consecutive 1-0 away victories over Turkey and Belgium, marking an ideal start to the Zidane era. This upcoming match serves as the first significant test before their home supporters.

Zidane relies on a fast and skillful attacking trio led by Ousmane Dembélé, supported by emerging talents Michael Olise and Désiré Doué. In midfield, Adrien Rabiot acts as the defensive anchor alongside creative playmaker Rayan Cherki.

The selection comes amid the absence of captain and star player Kylian Mbappé, who left the current training camp due to injury. His exclusion represents a notable blow to the beginning of Zidane’s tenure, impacting both the team's offensive power and morale.

French fans had anticipated seeing the collaboration between legend Zidane and Mbappé on the pitch for the first time. The official lineup reflects Zidane’s trust in younger players, confirming the following formation:

• Goalkeeper: Mike Maignan
• Defense: Pierre Kalulu, Jeremy Jacquet, Dayot Upamecano, Quentin Truffert
• Midfield: Rayan Cherki, Da Cunha, Adrien Rabiot
• Attack: Michael Olise, Ousmane Dembélé, Désiré Doué

Italy's response under Mancini

In contrast, the Italian national team’s lineup was announced under the guidance of Roberto Mancini. The Azzurri have selected the following players to start the match:

• Goalkeeper: Gianluigi Donnarumma
• Defense: Michael Kayode, Giorgio Scalvini, Alessandro Bastoni, Riccardo Calafiori
• Midfield: Sandro Tonali, Nicolo Fagioli, Davide Frattesi
• Attack: Moise Kean, Francesco Pio Esposito, Sebastiano Esposito