The Italy lineup that should start against Switzerland at Euro 2020

Italy swept Turkey away in their Euro 2020 opener
Italy swept Turkey away in their Euro 2020 opener / BSR Agency/Getty Images
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The Italy supporters in attendance for their Euro 2020 opener in Rome on Friday night couldn't have asked for a more complete performance from their side.

It wasn't the type of performance the wider audience had come to associate with the Azzurri but the fact they were so dynamic is a testament to the job Roberto Mancini has done since taking over the reins.

After Wales and Switzerland played out a draw, the Italians are pole position to win the group and a victory over Vladimir Petkovic's side could guarantee that.

Here's the side Mancini should select to face their neighbours.


1. Goalkeeper & defenders

Giorgio Chiellini
Chiellini was superb against Turkey / BSR Agency/Getty Images

Gianluigi Donnarumma (GK) - Italy's number one is closing in on a move to Paris Saint-Germain but his assured display against Turkey despite having relatively little to do suggests he's fully focussed on Euro 2020.

Alessandro Florenzi (RB) - Came off at half-time with a slight injury concern during Friday's opener but is expected to be passed fit to start.

Leonardo Bonucci (CB) - One of the more experienced campaigners in Mancini's side and a key part of the squad.

Giorgio Chiellini (CB) - There were question marks over Chiellini heading into the tournament given his age and how little football he played last season, but his performance on Friday suggests he's got plenty more gas in the tank.

Leonardo Spinazzola (LB) - The Roma defender was impressive versus Turkey, got forward to brilliant effect and never looked vulnerable from a defensive standpoint.

2. Midfield

Jorginho
Jorginho marshalled the midfield expertly / Claudio Villa/Getty Images

Jorginho (DM) - The Champions League winner works as the midfield metronome in this side. He brings an assurance in possession and has the tactical awareness to fill holes left by the more adventurous Nicolo Barella.

Nicolo Barella (CM) - The complete box-to-box midfielder, he had an impressive season for Inter and has continued his excellent form into these championships.

Manuel Locatelli (CM) - Sprayed the ball around brilliantly in the opener, grew into the game as it went on but with doubts over Marco Verratti's fitness, he deserves his place.

3. Forwards

Yusuf Yazici, Domenico Berardi
Domenico Berardi was preferred over Federico Chiesa for Italy's Group A opener / BSR Agency/Getty Images

Domenico Berardi (RW) - Was a surprise inclusion against Turkey, most would have expected Federico Chiesa to get the nod but Berardi offers Italy the option of mixing it up and going long from time to time. Played a vital role in the opening goal.

Lorenzo Insigne (LW) - Exploits the half-spaces brilliantly, particularly with Spinazzola constantly overlapping him and taking players away. His goal versus Turkey was trademark Insigne.

Ciro Immobile (ST) - Didn't have his best season for Lazio but got off to the perfect start by netting on Friday. A serious contender for the Golden Boot.