Outside the World Cup, Italy announces squad for friendlies; see list

Out of the World Cup for the third time in a row, Italy will play two friendlies in June and called up a very young team, without any famous names. Among them is striker Samuele Inácio, son of a former Brazilian player who is watched by the Brazilian team.

Samuele is the son of former Brazilian striker Inácio Piá, who played his entire career in Italy. The young man, a standout for Borussia Dortmund as a professional, can choose between playing for the Italians or Brazil.

Now, at 18 years old and after highlighting the U-17 World Cup, where he was number 10 for Italy, who beat Brazil in the 3rd place decision, Samuele received his first call-up to the main Italian team.

Despite the call-up, Samuele can still "switch countries" and defend Brazil, if he wants, as there will not be official tournament games. He is being watched by the Brazilian team, but has already indicated a preference for Italy.

Next to him are several other young people, as interim Silvio Baldini took only goalkeeper Donnarumma among the already established names who were part of yet another disappointing campaign towards the World Cup.

Italy will face Luxembourg and Greece, respectively, on June 3rd and 7th. Just like the Italians, their opponents will also not be in the 2026 World Cup.

Italy squad

- Goalkeepers: Donnarumma; Daffara and Palmisani
- Defenders: Ahanor, Bartesaghi, Chiarodia, Comuzzo, Favasuli, Mane, Palestra and Reggiani
- Midfielders: Dagasso, Faticanti, Ndour, Pisilli and Venturino
- Forwards: Camarda, Cherubini, Ekhator, Esposito, Fini, Samuele Inácio and Koleosho

Italy is the first champion in history to miss out on three consecutive World Cups

Source: CNN