Italy face domestic stars Yildiz & Thuram in Nations League

Italy found out that they will face France, Belgium and Turkiye in the 2026-27 UEFA Nations League, after being drawn into Group A.

The Azzurri were in pot 2 for the draw, and can feel slightly hard done by after what appears to be a difficult draw.

Italy and France have a decades-old rivalry, whilst the Azzurri have triumphed more often than not over Belgium and Turkiye.

However, all these nations are armed with players familiar with Italy – with several Serie A stars among the squads that will prepare to face Gennaro Gattuso’s side.

Who are the Serie A stars ready to face Italy in the Nations League?

France have a number of high-profile players playing in Serie A.

At Milan, Mike Maignan and Christopher Nkunku are both in contention for a place in the squad. Meanwhile, Inter & Juventus brothers Khephren and Marcus Thuram will also likely feature for Les Bleus. Former Rossoneri full-back Theo Hernandez will face many old teammates and rivals, whilst Roma’s Manu Kone is also involved in the French set-up.

Belgium have a handful of stars in Serie A. Kevin De Bruyne will likely feature after he recovers from his injury. Juventus forward Lois Openda is a regular, whilst Milan duo Alexis Saelemaekers and Koni De Winter both also feature. Atalanta’s Charles De Ketelaere could also potentially play against Italy in the Nations League.

Turkiye, meanwhile, have several influential players currently based in Italy. Kenan Yildiz, arguably one of the best forwards in the league, will no doubt be involved, alongside Roma wing-back Zeki Celik, Inter talisman Hakan Calhanoglu and Pisa midfielder Isak Vural.