Cristante Withdraws as Italy Call Up Samuele Ricci for Nations League

Bryan Cristante has withdrawn from the Italy squad after suffering an injury, forcing Roberto Mancini to make a late adjustment to his plans. The Roma midfielder has been replaced by Como star Samuele Ricci, with the Italian Football Federation confirming the change ahead of the upcoming Nations League fixtures.

Cristante had been among the eight players selected for Mancini’s first training camp since returning to the national team setup. However, an undisclosed physical problem has ruled him out of Italy’s demanding schedule, which includes matches against Belgium, Turkiye, and France during the international period.

Ricci now has an opportunity to strengthen his position within the national team after previously making his senior debut under Mancini in 2022. The Como midfielder has earned 11 international caps and has already demonstrated his ability to contribute at the highest level, including during Italy’s 3-1 victory over France.

Italy’s squad is due to gather at Coverciano on Sunday evening before beginning preparations on Monday. Their first Nations League assignment will come against Belgium on September 25, giving Ricci and the rest of the squad limited time to adapt before the competitive action begins.

The latest squad features a blend of established names and emerging talent across every position, including Gianluigi Donnarumma, Alessandro Bastoni, Nicolò Barella, Sandro Tonali, Moise Kean, Gianluca Scamacca, and Ricci. With Cristante unavailable, Ricci will have the opportunity to make a greater impact as Italy look to navigate a challenging Nations League schedule under Mancini.