Nicolò Fagioli finds himself in Italy’s provisional squad for the European Championship despite recently serving a seven-month ban for betting infractions. Luciano Spalletti unveiled a 30-man roster on Thursday as Italy gears up to defend its Euro title.
Fagioli, who returned from suspension after undergoing treatment for a gambling addiction, marked his comeback as a substitute in a 3-3 draw against Bologna. The Juventus midfielder had featured in six Serie A matches prior to his ban and is regarded as one of Italy’s promising young talents.
Although Fagioli earned one cap for Italy in November 2022, his Juventus teammate Manuel Locatelli, a member of the Euro 2020-winning squad, did not secure a spot in the provisional roster.
Riccardo Calafiori earns his maiden call-up after an impressive season with Bologna, aiding the club’s historic qualification for the Champions League. Additionally, Torino’s Raoul Bellanova and Hellas Verona’s Michael Folorunsho receive their first call-ups following commendable performances.
Gianluca Scamacca, fresh from Atalanta’s Europa League triumph, rejoins the squad after showcasing remarkable form subsequent to his exclusion from previous friendlies.
However, veteran striker Ciro Immobile misses out on selection. Despite his prolific displays at Lazio, the 34-year-old has struggled to replicate similar success with the national team.
With the Euros commencing on June 14 in Germany, Italy initiates its title defense against Albania in Dortmund on June 15. Spain and Croatia complete Group B.
Ahead of their departure for Germany, Italy is scheduled to play warm-up fixtures against Turkey on June 4 and Bosnia-Herzegovina on June 9.
Four players from the provisional squad will be omitted by June 6 as Italy finalizes its roster for the tournament.
