How Italy can replace Zaniolo ahead of France and Belgium tests

UDINE, ITALY - AUGUST 22: Nicolò Zaniolo of Udinese walks out onto the pitch ahead of the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and Como 1907 at Stadio Friuli on August 22, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)

Nicolo Zaniolo has withdrawn from the Italy national team squad for unspecified personal reasons, which leaves Roberto Mancini with two main options to pick from on Italy’s right flank. 

Italy have two main right wing options after Zaniolo withdrawal

Zaniolo was one of 31 players originally called up by Mancini on Thursday evening, ahead of Nations League against France this Thursday and Belgium on Sunday. It was confirmed on Tuesday that the Udinese attacker had left the camp for personal reasons. 

Zaniolo has been included in both Italy national team squads since the return of Mancini as CT, but has not featured for the Azzurri in either of those camps given that he was forced to withdraw through injury back in September. 

As things stand in November, a replacement for Zaniolo in November has not been called up. 

Zaniolo was able to train with the Italy squad on Monday, at a training session at Coverciano attended by Football Italia. 

During Monday’s session, Zaniolo was tested among the three right-wing options, along with Napoli’s Antonio Vergara and Como’s Mattia Liberali. One of them could now be in line for a starting opportunity when Italy take on France in San Siro on Thursday evening. 

Speaking at his press conference on Monday, Mancini praised Zaniolo for his versatility, stating that he is capable of covering in practically every position in the attack: “Zaniolo can play everywhere with his qualities. Attacking midfielder, winger or striker,” said the CT.

Adding further context behind his decision to call up Zaniolo for a second time, Mancini said: “I expect the same thing as everyone else. Perform well and be consistent. Start becoming decisive because time passes by. He used to be a kid, and now he should be a player who makes a difference with the national team.

“Back in 2018, we had more experienced players. Giorgio, Leo, Verratti, Jorginho, were the most experienced ones. Today we don’t have many.”