Strongest possible starting XI for Italy | UEFA Euro 2020

Defensive Midfield - Manuel Locatelli

Locatelli has been impressive for Italy

Italy have built a formidable midfield unit under Roberto Mancini and Manuel Locatelli is the latest in a historic line of midfield gems to have played for the Azzurri. Locatelli has been exceptional for Sassuolo this season and will play a pivotal role in Italy's Euro fortunes.

The Neroverdi midfielder has a unique set of skills and his ability to complete long passes and take successful long-distance shots makes him a force to be reckoned with. Locatelli has attracted attention from some of Europe's biggest clubs in recent months and is one of Italy's most promising midfielders.

💪 World-class midfield👀 Locatelli one to watch🤩 Passion for the national anthemHere's @JamesHorncastle providing the ultimate guide to Italy at Euro 2020 🇮🇹Full video here: https://t.co/j7Fp2uMxmu pic.twitter.com/11vs25HUug

— The Athletic UK (@TheAthleticUK) June 2, 2021

Locatelli was at his best in Italy's 4-0 victory against Czech Republic and is set to remain a fixture in the team. The Sassuolo star has a few aces up his sleeve and will want to make an indelible impact at Euro 2020.

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Central Midfield - Jorginho

Jorginho is an important player for Italy

Most European teams have grown reliant on accurate passers of the ball over the past decade and Jorginho is as metronomic as they come. The Azzurri midfielder won the UEFA Champions League with Chelsea last month and will look to add another piece of glittering silverware to his trophy cabinet this summer.

The Chelsea midfielder has shown tremendous improvement under Thomas Tuchel this season and adds a discernible measure of stability to Mancini's side. The former Manchester City manager has trusted his midfield general on several occasions in the past and will likely rely heavily on Jorginho to recycle possession at Euro 2020.

Jorginho has also become Chelsea's penalty specialist this season and has an excellent record from the spot. The Blues' technician is arguably in the form of his life and remains an important player for Italy.

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Attacking Midfield - Nicolo Barella

Inter Milan's Barella has been sensational in the Serie A

Antonio Conte is known for his penchant for player development but the Italian manager seems to have outdone himself with Nicolo Barella. The Italian youngster has taken massive strides this season and could become one of Italy's most important players at Euro 2020.

Inter Milan have primarily employed a 3-5-2 formation this season and Nicolo Barella has been its beating heart. The 24-year-old midfielder has bagged seven assists in the Serie A and has become accustomed to functioning as his team's creative fulcrum.

Tottenham and Liverpool are keeping tabs on Inter midfielder Nicolo Barella, according to reports #THFC #LFChttps://t.co/324eIbkFCm

— talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) January 20, 2021

With Jorginho and Locatelli behind him, Nicolo Barella has the freedom to express himself with Italy and will play a crucial role in his side's attacking transitions. Barella is a treat to watch on his day and his link-up play with the likes of Insigne and Immobile will be key to Italy's Euro fortunes.

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