Jorginho's Itália recall pits veteran against Flamengo's youth surge
Volante Jorginho of Flamengo has been named by Roberto Mancini in the Itália pre‑list, ending a two‑year absence from the national side. The midfielder was a Eurocopa 2020 champion and now sits among the options for the Azzurra. If selected, he could re‑join the squad after a long hiatus.
Italy's rebuilding plan
Itália have missed three consecutive Copa Mundial campaigns and are now seeking a blend of youth and experience. Mancini, who returned to the helm in July after a failed World Cup qualification bid, wants seasoned players like Jorginho to anchor the side. Having previously coached the Azzurra from 2018 to 2023, Mancini already knows the Volante’s qualities.
Jorginho’s résumé includes 57 caps for Itália, five goals and three assists, and a pivotal role in the Eurocopa 2020 triumph. The midfielder’s experience could prove vital as the team reshapes its core. A call‑up would mark his first appearance for the Azzurra in two years.
The upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures – against Belgium, Turkey and France between the end of September and early October – will be Mancini’s first test of the new squad. Those matches offer a platform to assess whether veterans or emerging talents should dominate the line‑up. Italy will aim to prove they can compete with Europe’s elite once more.
Mancini transforms Italy from depression to optimism with the youngsters
Flamengo's international footprint
Beyond Jorginho, other Flamengo players are on the radar of their respective national teams. Pedro and Samuel Lino have made Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil pre‑list, with the Seleção set to face Australia and India on Wednesday – the first FIFA date targeting the 2030 Copa del Mundo.
Further South American call‑ups include Plata and Valencia for Ecuador, Carrascal for Colombia, and Arrascaeta, Varela and De La Cruz for Uruguay. The original Portuguese release even lists the headings Os, De and La as part of its format. Flamengo’s talent pool is therefore spreading across several continents.
The contrast is stark: Jorginho’s possible Itália recall highlights a veteran’s bid to re‑enter European elite, while his club mates pursue debut honours with South American nations. Together they illustrate Flamengo’s growing global influence and the varied paths its players now navigate.