Midfielders: Barella, Jorginho, Verratti
The right-sided midfielder in the three-man midfield is Nicolo Barella. Italy have earned praise for their solid and resolute midfield in this tournament and Barella is a key component of it. The playmaker from Inter has been outstanding at UEFA Euro 2020 and was involved in both the goals against Belgium in the last round.
In the middle of the park is Jorginho who is the orchestrator of this Italian side. Often criticized for his gameplay and mistakes, Jorginho has been at the top of his game in 2021. Not only does he keep the ball moving and keep his team in control, but his defensive work rate has been sensational as well. Jorginho is the key to Italy’s domination on the ball and how they control the tempo of the game.
The final piece which completes that terrific midfield is Marco Veratti. He is a relentless worker and a dream midfielder to have for any manager. His work rate off the ball is staggering and the constant will to win the ball back makes him stand out in that midfield. The PSG midfielder, with his sublime passing skills, often drops back to distribute the ball as well.
Midfield battles win you games and there are very few who can match this Italian midfield. It is a mixture of talent and hard work in the middle of the work and Mancini has the three central men drilled for every situation.
Forwards: Chiesa, Immobile, Insigne
Federico Chiesa started over Domenico Berardi on the right side of the Italian attack against Belgium, and Mancini will look to keep the same formation in the semis. Chiesa scored an important goal in the round of 16 against Austria but has only been awarded two starts in this Euro campaign. He has great pace and Mancini will look to use that considering how attack-minded Jordi Alba is.
Ciro Immobile will start the game as the main striker for Italy. It has been a hit-and-miss campaign for the 31-year old. He started the tournament strongly and registered a goal and an assist to his name. He missed some golden chances against Switzerland but ultimately got his goal late in the game. Since then, he has started two games but hasn't contributed much to the attack. Italian fans will be hoping to see him regain form in the semi-finals.
Lorenzo Insigne will take the final spot in the team. The winger has been one of the most promising players in the team for a while now and is really showcasing his talent at Euro 2020. Insigne is deployed on the left-flank by Mancini and he often tries to cut inside and curl shots at the goal with his dominant right foot. His strike against Belgium was a classic example of his trademark move. The 30-year old is always involved in the Italian attacks and has scored 2 goals in this competition. till now.
Final Team: Donnarumma; Di Lorenzo, Bonucci, Chiellini, Emerson; Barella, Jorginho, Verratti; Chiesa, Immobile, Insigne