Probable line-ups: France vs Italy with key players back

Michael Kayode celebrates Italy’s third goal with Sandro Tonali in Bursa, Turkey, during the Nations League match on Sept 28, 2026.

Italy will likely field both Esposito brothers again, with Moise Kean doubtful, a refreshed midfield and Kayode slated at right‑back versus France.

The match kicks off at Paris’ Stade de France on Friday at 19:45 UK time (20:45 CEST).

Mancini told reporters that Como striker Kean remains a major doubt and may not even make the bench tomorrow night.

Given their 4‑1 win in Turkey, the Esposito twins Pio and Sebastiano could start together up front.

Pio Esposito celebrates with brother Sebastiano after Italy’s win over Turkey.

With Raspadori and Zaniolo sidelined, Daniel Maldini is pushing for the third striker slot. For my money, Maldini deserves the nod.

After the 2‑0 loss to Belgium and the 4‑1 triumph in Turkey, Paris may see a hybrid of those line‑ups.

Tonali and Fagioli should stay from the last game, while Inter’s Barella is expected to replace Frattesi.

Alternatively, Frattesi could start over Fagioli, though that would sap some creativity.

Riccardo Calafiori inspects the pitch with teammates before Italy’s Nations League match in Bursa.

Kayode’s strong showing and goal in Bursa make it likely the Brentford right‑back keeps his place, pushing Di Lorenzo to the bench.

Arsenal’s Riccardo Calafiori is set to return after Ruggeri’s debut, with Bastoni and Scalvini confirmed as the centre‑back duo.

France coach Zinedine Zidane watches the Belgium clash at Stade Roi Baudouin in Brussels.

France made nine changes between the side that beat Turkey and the one that edged Belgium in the final minute.

Mbappé sits out with a knee injury, but Milan midfielder Adrien Rabiot and Roma’s Manu Koné are expected back in the XI.

Manu Koné in action for France during the World Cup 2026 qualifier versus Ukraine at Parc des Princes.

Despite Lucas Da Cunha’s display in Brussels, the Como forward will likely remain on the bench against Italy.

Dembélé and Olise rejoin the attack, while Doué has probably earned his spot.

Diouf and Kalulu are expected to be dropped, and L’Equipe suggests Maignan could be rested for 21‑year‑old Guillaume Restes’s debut.

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France (4-3-3): Maignan; Koundé, Upamecano, Jacquet, Truffert; Cherki, Koné, Rabiot; Olise, Dembélé, Doué

Italy (4-3-3): Donnarumma; Kayode, Scalvini, Bastoni, Calafiori; Barella, Tonali, Fagioli; Maldini, P Esposito, S Esposito