Italy: Gattuso has finalised his squad, three uncertainties remain

Less than 24 hours before Head Coach Gennaro Gattuso must name his 28‑man squad for the World Cup play‑offs, the decisions are largely made. On Friday 19 March he will announce the list that will prepare Italy to face Northern Ireland in Bergamo on Thursday 26 March in the first leg, with the final round against the winner of Bosnia‑Wales if Italy progress.

Goalkeepers are settled: Donnarumma, Carnesecchi and Vicario are sure to feature, with the fourth spot likely to go to Alex Meret rather than Elia Caprile. Defensive options have been shaped by injuries, leaving Bastoni, Mancini and Calafiori as the established centre‑backs, joined by Buongiorno, Gatti and Scalvini; Coppola remains the only defensive doubt as his inclusion is weighed against an extra attacking winger.

Dimarco and Cambiaso are certain as wing‑backs in the 3‑5‑2 and will be joined by Palestra and Spinazzola, while Udogie and Bellanova are likely to be omitted.

Italy, Bergamo

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