Italy assess lineup options as Nicolo Cambiaghi trains separately before Belgium test

Italy are considering changes to their starting XI for their UEFA Nations League group-stage finale against Belgium on November 16, with Nicolo Cambiaghi training away from the main squad after the 3-1 victory over France.

The Azzurri will travel to Brussels to face Belgium at the King Baudouin Stadium knowing a draw will be enough to secure a place in the Nations League quarter-finals. The outcome of France’s match against Turkey will not affect Italy’s qualification position.

Despite their advantage, manager Mancini still has several decisions to make before selecting his team.

Cambiaghi was one of the standout performers during the win over France but completed an individual training session. In Italy’s usual 4-3-3 system, Federico Dimarco could therefore be moved into a wide attacking role in place of the Bologna winger.

Antonio Vergara is expected to come in on the opposite flank, replacing Esposito.

There is also a midfield place available following Frattesi’s injury. Issa Doumbia is in contention after making a positive impact as a substitute against France and could be rewarded with a starting opportunity.

Fagioli remains another option for Mancini to consider. His inclusion could give Italy greater quality in the organisation of their attacking play as they look to complete the group stage against Belgium.

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Andrews Sefa Bamfo
Andrews Sefa Bamfo is a promising young football writer and reporter, recognised as one of the rising talents in African football journalism. He specialises in match reporting, features and on-ground coverage, bringing fresh perspective and energy to the industry.He is educated at the University of Ghana and has gained valuable experience working with one of Ghana’s leading media organisations, TV3, where he developed his skills in both television reporting and football journalism.Andrews’ talent and potential were further recognised when he was selected for the prestigious CAF Young Reporters Programme, where he received advanced media training in partnership with CANAL+. This exposure has helped shape his understanding of modern sports journalism and storytelling.Since then, he has continued to grow in the field and is widely regarded as one of the emerging voices in African football media. He is currently a Staff Writer at African.Football, contributing to the platform’s coverage with insightful reports and engaging content for a global audience.

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