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Probable line-ups: France vs. Italy with big names returning

Italy are expected to start the Esposito brothers together again with Moise Kean not fully fit, a revamped midfield and Michael Kayode confirmed at right-back against France.It kicks off at the Stade ...

Probable line-ups: France vs. Italy with big names returning

France and Italy are set to face off in their probable line-ups, with both nations looking to field big names returning from previous matches. Italy will start with both Esposito brothers together again, while Michael Kayode is confirmed at right-back for France. The match is scheduled for Friday at the Stade de France in Paris, starting at 19:45 UK time (20:45 CEST).

Roberto Mancini confirmed that Italian striker Moise Kean is a major doubt and possibly not on the bench. With Kean's absence, Sebastiano and Francesco Pio Esposito could join forces up front for Italy. Meanwhile, Daniel Maldini is pushing for a spot in Italy's midfield.

In contrast to France's wholesale changes since their defeat to Belgium, Italy's lineup will see a blend of those two teams. Inter's Nicolò Barella will replace Davide Frattesi, while Sandro Tonali and Nicolò Fagioli remain from their recent match. The alternative would be Frattesi taking the place of Fagioli, but that might compromise creativity.

Defensively, Kayode's strong performance and goal in Bursa suggest he will retain his spot, with Giovanni Di Lorenzo on the bench. Inter's Lucas Da Cunha is expected to be left out, but Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise return to the trident for France. France will also be without Kylian Mbappé due to a knee injury sustained earlier in the tournament.

Written by urgent.news from Yahoo Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

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