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Spalletti explains that Italy have not made any major changes in 11 games against Israel

Spalletti explains that Italy have not made any major changes in 11 games against Israel

Spalletti explains that Italy have not made any major changes in 11 games against Israel

Luciano Spalletti Italy (Photo by Odd ANDERSEN / AFP) (Photo by ODD ANDERSEN/AFP via Getty Images)


Luciano Spalletti explains why he only made three changes to the starting line-up in the Italy-Israel game and gives some hints about his first substitutions in the Nations League too.

Kick-off takes place at 7.45pm UK time (6.45pm GMT) at the Bluenergy Stadium in Udine.

You can follow the entire build-up and action in the live blog.

Their 100 percent record was ended by a 2-2 draw against Belgium on Thursday night, a game in which they had led 2-0 until Lorenzo Pellegrini was shown red.

Apparently, the Roma midfielder is therefore suspended, while Guglielmo Vicario, Nicolò Fagioli and Giacomo Raspadori move into the starting XI.

Spalletti is striving for consistency in Italy

“The boys did so well the other day and I want to see if they can take the same approach,” Spalletti told RAI Sport.

“We changed a few things as Donnarumma has a yellow card while Retegui is in the starting line-up because we have to win this game.”

Samuele Ricci will also be sent to the bench and replaced by Juventus midfielder Fagioli after impressive performances that earned him the attention of Manchester City and Milan in the transfer market.

Spalletti gives some hints about the changes he will make in the second half tonight.

“I brought Zaniolo with me and I will probably need an additional midfielder to step in in the second half as our players do a lot in that role.”

While Israel is bottom of the Nations League group after zero points from three games, it was able to score points in each of these games against France, Belgium and Italy.

“Israel has changed a few players since the first game. I expected them to have the same tactical system against France, using a five-man defense with another attacking full-back, but we don't see any surprises.”


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