Italy, who to rebuild around? Gigio, Palestra and Pio, then... 👀 | OneFootball

After the catastrophic debacle in Bosnia, a new phase for the national team is inevitably beginning.

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It will not be a total revolution, but some changes are already expected from the next call-ups in June. Gattuso’s future seems all but decided, but regardless of who is in charge, it is clear that the squad will be refreshed, with several of the main figures from the night in Zenica set to make way for new solutions.

Italy, who should you start again from?

Among the foundations on which to build this new Azzurri era, Palestra clearly stands out: his performances against Northern Ireland and Bosnia highlighted a wing-back who is already mature, capable of establishing himself as a reliable presence on the right flank, regardless of the system. The fact that he belongs to Atalanta but is currently on loan at Cagliari does not change the substance: right now he represents a reliable solution with strong long-term potential.

Inter players such as Barella, Bastoni and Dimarco also remain central figures, combining quality, international experience and still-significant room for growth. However, it will be crucial to assess their response, especially mentally, after yet another disappointment in the Italy shirt.

There is no shortage of certainties: Donnarumma continues to provide security between the posts, Tonali confirms himself as a technical and emotional leader, while Calafiori is being asked to make the definitive leap in quality by finding consistency and a clear tactical role. In attack, Scamacca’s full recovery is eagerly awaited, with Kean now firmly recognised as the team’s main scoring reference. Di Lorenzo’s return will add experience, while Buongiorno will need to regain solidity. Gabbia and Ricci, meanwhile, remain under observation, with midfield potentially offering new opportunities precisely to the Milan playmaker.

In the attacking department, Pio Esposito is also putting himself forward for a leading role: beyond the mistake from the spot, he showed personality, the ability to make an impact and a constant presence in the final third, qualities that place him among the main options alongside Scamacca, Kean and Raspadori.

Finally, the generational change must be set in motion: Pisilli is destined to gain more space if he confirms the progress shown with Roma, while Fagioli could be a resource to reintegrate. From the Under-21s, Bartesaghi and Ahanor are ready to make the step up, with profiles such as Kayode and Ndour to be monitored closely with the future in mind.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇮🇹 here.

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