Mancini ahead of France: "If I were Zidane I wouldn't risk Mbappé... We're playing for qualification against Belgium"

Mancini previews Nations League clash with France at San Siro, hoping to improve on the first meeting and secure qualification for the quarter-finals.

Italy manager Roberto Mancini held his pre-match press conference ahead of the Nations League fixture against France at San Siro. With seven points from two remaining games, the Azzurri remain in contention for both the group title and quarter-final qualification.

Mancini acknowledged France's quality after their first meeting, saying "it was a good match, and France is a great team," but insisted Italy can improve on their performance. He expressed confidence in key players Barella and Cisse, who he described as coming off excellent recent displays.

On Donnarumma's return to San Siro, Mancini hoped the goalkeeper would be welcomed rather than booed, calling him "a great goalkeeper and an extraordinary person" who doesn't deserve jeers. Mancini also joked about potentially resting Mbappé, saying "I would suggest not risking him," before noting France has so many attacking options that selection is difficult.

Italy must break a recent curse at San Siro, having lost their last three home matches there.