Barella and Frattesi to start, Esposito on right: Mancini's likely choices for Italy-France

Zaniolo left the Italy camp for personal reasons; Mancini will start Barella and Frattesi in midfield with Sebastiano Esposito on the right wing for tomorrow's France match.

Nicolò Zaniolo requested to leave Italy's training camp at Coverciano on personal grounds, departing shortly before lunch. Manager Luciano Mancini granted the request, allowing the midfielder to return home. Zaniolo later explained via social media that the decision was personal and asked for privacy, reaffirming his pride in wearing the Azzurri shirt.

With Zaniolo unavailable, Mancini will deploy Sebastiano Esposito on the right wing for Friday's match against France at San Siro. Esposito was tested in that role during the second half against Turkey and started on the opposite flank in Paris a month ago.

The manager will maintain his 4-3-3 formation, demanding defensive work from his wingers to counter France's possession play. Barella and Davide Frattesi are confirmed as the central midfielders, with Tonali in the regista role. The defence remains unchanged from the Paris fixture: Kayode, Scalvini, Bastoni and Donnarumma.