Italy’s risky Rome debut against Belgium sparks doubts over Mancini’s revival

Under the floodlights of the Stadio Olimpico, the Azzurri line‑up for a night that could decide whether Rome becomes a ruin for the Red Devils. Roberto Mancini, back at the helm, has handed nine newcomers their first senior caps as Italy face Belgium in a Nations League showdown.

Historic weight on Mancini’s shoulders

The match arrives with the memory of summer 2021 still vivid – Italy’s Wembley triumph that crowned Mancini European champion and revived a nation that had missed the 2018 World Cup. That euphoria has faded; the side missed the 2022 and 2026 World Cups, becoming the first former world champion to skip three successive tournaments.

Italian football analyst Willem Haak warns, “If Italy miss one World Cup it is a drama; miss three in a row it is a catastrophe.” The pressure to restore pride now rests on a coach whose previous tenure ended in resignation and whose successor, Andrea Pirlo, fell out over a Russian gambling partnership.

Selection as a ‘emergency measure’

Haak describes Mancini’s current squad as “a bit of an emergency measure”. Nine players will wear the Azzurri shirt for the first time, including Monza forward Eddy Kouadio and German‑league prospect Mohamed Alì Zoma, both virtually unknown to Serie A followers.

Italy and Mancini look to surprise Belgium in Rome

Among the debutants, 20‑year‑old midfielder Alessandro Romano stands out. After a summer loan from Roma to Cagliari, he quickly made an impact on the island, signalling the youthful vigour Mancini hopes to inject.

Haak also draws a comparison with Spain’s Luis de la Fuente, noting Mancini is “no Luis de la Fuente who lifted Spanish football”. The lack of a true innovator fuels scepticism, even as the coach claims familiarity with the Azzurri’s inner workings.

Broader sporting context

The article sits within a broader “Voetbal” overview that also lists “Tennis”, “Formule”, “Programma”, “Jupiler Pro League”, “Challenger Pro League”, “Champions League”, “Europa League”, “Conference League” and “Nations League” fixtures, underscoring the crowded calendar.

Italian giants stumble as Roma lead Serie A race

Readers are invited to explore the “Meer” section for additional “Artikel” and to listen to the seven‑minute audio recap released on 25 September 2026 at 12:50.