Zidane begins a new era in Paris | OneFootball

France have named their starting line-up for Zinedine Zidane’s first home match, a showpiece against historic rivals Italy in Paris.

Spirits are high after two straight 1-0 away wins over Türkiye and Belgium. According to Goal.com, Italy provide the first major home examination.

Zidane leans on pace and invention up front, led by Ousmane Dembélé with Michael Olise and Désiré Doué. Adrien Rabiot partners the creative Rayan Cherki in midfield.

The major omission is captain Kylian Mbappé, who has left the current camp through injury. His absence bites both technically and emotionally, with fans hoping to see Zidane and Mbappé together at the Stade de France.

France XI: Mike Maignan in goal, with a back four of Pierre Kalulu, Jérémie Jacquet, Dayot Upamecano and Quentin Trévoir. Midfield features Rayan Cherki, Da Cunha and Adrien Rabiot. The front three is Michael Olise, Ousmane Dembélé and Désiré Doué.

Roberto Mancini’s Italy start with Donnarumma in goal. The defence is Michael Kayode, Giorgio, Alessandro Bastoni and Riccardo Calafiori. Midfield comprises Sandro Tonali, Nicolò Fagioli and Davide Frattesi, with Moise Kean, Francesco Pio and Sebastiano Esposito in attack.

Source: Goal.com

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”