PARMA, ITALY – Aug 22: Leonardo Bonucci and Roberto Mancini watch Parma vs Cagliari at Stadio Ennio Tardini.
Bonucci says Italy’s new Nations League shape aims squarely at France’s flanks, packed with surprises.
Kick‑off is set for Stade de France, Paris, 19:45 UK (20:45 CEST).
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Under the returning boss, Italy have shown stark contrast: a 2‑0 home loss to Belgium followed by a 4‑1 away win over Turkey.
Now they travel to Paris to test Zinedine Zidane’s side, fresh from consecutive 1‑0 victories on the road.
Bonucci outlines Italy’s adjustments
“We aimed at their wings because France sit deep, so the coach chose this system,” Bonucci told RAI Sport.
“Consistency in midfield mattered, and with another match on Monday we’ll need fresh legs and experience,” he added.
Surprises abound: Kean is back from a knock, Calafiori returns at left‑back, yet the midfield stays unchanged, leaving Barella on the bench.
“Our philosophy stays the same. We know the coach favors possession; sometimes we’ll sit low, but the chance to attack remains. For my money, that mindset gives Italy the edge,” Bonucci noted.
“We faced harsh criticism after Belgium and over‑hype after Turkey; balance is key,” he said.
Neutralising France’s threat from Dembélé, Olise and Doué will be tough, even without an injured Mbappé.
Serie A faces in the XI include Milan’s Mike Maignan, Juventus’s Pierre Kalulu, Milan’s Adrien Rabiot and Como midfielder Lucas Da Cunha.
“Teamwork is vital; midfield must support defence, concentration is crucial against players who can decide a match in an instant,” Bonucci stressed.
Raspadori pulled out of the Bursa game with a muscle injury, and Honest Ahanor was released to join the U‑21 squad.
Still at Coverciano ahead of the final break are Inacio, Romano, Cambiaghi, Coppola, Ghilardi, Kouadio, Mandragora and Pessina.