Italy manager Roberto Mancini has clarified why Borussia Dortmund’s 18-year-old Samuele Inacio has been omitted from three consecutive Italy matchday squads during the current Nations League international break. Despite being called up to the senior squad, the young midfielder has not featured, prompting questions from supporters.
Inacio, who plays for German club Borussia Dortmund, earned his first Italy cap in a friendly against Luxembourg in June. His inclusion in Mancini’s Nations League squad generated excitement, but he has since been left out of the matchday selections for Italy’s fixtures against Belgium, Turkey, and France.
Mancini’s Rationale
Speaking ahead of Italy’s upcoming fixture, Mancini explained that Inacio’s age is a significant factor in his exclusion. He also highlighted the teenager’s current lack of regular starting opportunities at club level, suggesting a need for more development time.
Mancini stated: “He’s a young player who still needs to develop. He’s 18. It takes time. He has to start training with us and build experience. Even if he’s at Borussia Dortmund, he hasn’t played much. We know his quality; he’ll surely be an important player for the national team, but he’s very young, so we need to give him time and let him understand what he can do.”
International Future and Outlook
Crucially, Inacio’s sole international appearance came in a friendly match against Luxembourg in June. This means the young talent remains eligible to represent Brazil at senior international level, a point of interest given his dual nationality.
Italy has one remaining Nations League match this international break, a home fixture against Turkey. While Inacio’s immediate involvement remains uncertain, Mancini’s comments suggest a long-term plan for the promising midfielder within the national team setup.