Europa League
Red Devils keep Fofana, Sabbe and De Winter out of Nations League opener
In the early evening light of Rome the Red Devils are already in the stands, but three names are missing from the list: Malick Fofana, Kyriani Sabbe and Koni De Winter. National team coach Mark van Bommel has dropped them for the first Nations League‑match against Italy, which will be played on Friday at 20:45 in the city.
Selection choices and injuries
Van Bommel, who is officially making his debut as national team coach, indicated that he had a large squad for the four‑match series, but that trimming is required for each game. In addition to the three omitted players, the squad also has to consider minor injuries to goalkeeper Mike Penders (Chelsea) and winger Leandro Trossard (Besiktas), who will remain in Belgium for the time being.
Italian opponents and broader context
Italy itself is dealing with a long list of absentees: Nicolo Zaniolo (Udinese), Matteo Pessina (Monza), Daniele Ghilardi (AS Roma), Eddy Kouadio (Monza), Matteo Ruggeri (Aston Villa), Samuele Ricci (Como) and Nicolo Fagioli (Fiorentina). In addition, Alessandro Bastoni (Inter) is suspended. The match will be broadcast live and there is a full sports overview, including Formula 1 highlights and Jupiler Pro League news. Mark van Bommel said: “Of course you’re nervous”, but he emphasized that the squad must remain flexible. He cited the Champions and Europa League experience of the remaining players as crucial for the match.
Mark van Bommel launches the rebuilding of the Red Devils in Rome
The absence of the three young players is seen as an opportunity for others to prove themselves in the Challenger Pro League environment and possibly play a role in the Conference League stage later this season.
With the Red Devils still needing to decide whether Trossard and Penders will make the trip to Rome, the final squad remains uncertain. More details are expected later in the day, once the team heads to the airport.