France Prepares for Key UEFA Nations League Match Against Italy
France faces Italy tonight at the iconic San Siro in Milan for Matchday 5 of the 2026-2027 UEFA Nations League. Under the guidance of Zinédine Zidane, Les Bleus only require a draw to secure a place in the tournament’s quarter-finals scheduled for March 2027. However, Zidane’s squad will miss several critical players due to injuries.
Notably, France captain Kylian Mbappé will be absent as he recovers from a minor hamstring strain. Zidane plans to lean on the Real Madrid star for their upcoming home match against Türkiye this Sunday.
In the absence of Mbappé, Zidane has limited options to fill the forward position. While he has called up uncapped players Eli Junior Kroupi and Senny Mayulu, it is reported that PSG’s versatile winger, Désiré Doué, will take on a central role in Zidane’s 4-3-3 formation. Liverpool’s Bradley Barcola and Bayern Munich’s Michael Olise will assume positions on the wings.
AC Milan midfielder Adrien Rabiot will play at San Siro, teaming up with Mike Maignan and Inter Milan’s Andy Diouf. Following his impressive performances at the international level, Liverpool’s Jérémy Jacquet is expected to partner with Dayot Upamecano in defense.
France’s Anticipated Line-Up Against Italy
Mike Maignan; Andy Diouf, Dayot Upamecano, Jérémy Jacquet, Malo Gusto; Adrien Rabiot, Lucas Da Cunha, Rayan Cherki; Bradley Barcola, Désiré Doué, Michael Olise. (L’Éq)
