Mancini picks the lineup for Italy‑Belgium, Vergara in contention

Tonight Italy faces Belgium at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome on the Nations League matchday, with Roberto Mancini in charge for his game. After the defeat in Zenica in Bosnia and two wins under Baldini, writes Corriere della Sera, eight starters have lived through the World Cup knockout stage, while Bastoni is suspended and replaced by Coppola of Paris FC.

Mancini's choices for the lineup

Latest Serie A news indicates that on the right flank he could line up Cambiaghi, with Vergara in contention for the starting spot. The choice aims to provide balance to the attacking trident formed by Pio Esposito and Kean.

Among the eight called up, the coach has included four debutants, including Romano of Cagliari, considered ready for his debut. Zoma of Nuremberg is another youngster on whom Mancini is willing to bet, as he did with Zaniolo in 2018.

With the possible absence of the Udinese striker, the formation could shift from a 4‑3‑3 to a 3‑5‑2, providing greater coverage in midfield.

Mancini returns to Italy's helm, faces Belgium at the Olympics

Sporting and economic value of the Nations League

The Nations League, now in its fifth edition, concentrates the first four group‑stage matches in a single block between September and October, with the final two in November.

The Italian national team is placed in League A together with France, Turkey and the Red Devils, and aims to restart after the disappointment in Zenica. The top three finishers in each group will secure a seeded position for the qualifiers to the 2028 European Championship.

For mere participation in League A, UEFA awards each federation €2.25 million; the same amount is added for first place in the group, bringing the total to €4.5 million. The final‑stage prizes range from €2.5 million for fourth place up to €6 million for the winner, allowing a nation that wins its group and the trophy to collect a total of €10.5 million.

Italy, Mancini backs youngsters ahead of Belgium in Rome decisive clash

Although they do not approach the prize money of a European Championship or a World Cup, these figures make the Nations League more than just a simple alternative to friendlies, offering both sporting motivation and a substantial economic incentive.