Italy's Predicted Starting XI for World Cup Play-off Against Northern Ireland

Following the initial day of training, and amidst a number of lingering injury concerns, the potential starting lineup for Italy's World Cup play-off semi-final against Northern Ireland is beginning to take shape.

This pivotal World Cup play-off semi-final is scheduled to commence on Thursday at 19:45 GMT (20:45 CET) at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo.

The victor of this match will advance to face either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the final, set for Tuesday, March 31.

Gattuso Shapes Italy's Squad Amidst Challenges

Coach Gennaro Gattuso has already had to adapt his squad due to injuries, notably sending Federico Chiesa back to Liverpool and subsequently calling up Nicolò Cambiaghi from Bologna.

Several other key players remain fitness doubts, including Alessandro Bastoni, Riccardo Calafiori, Sandro Tonali, and Gianluca Mancini.

Reports indicate that Gattuso is expected to deploy a 3-5-2 formation, featuring Manchester City's Gianluigi Donnarumma as goalkeeper and captain.

Should either Bastoni or Arsenal's Calafiori be unavailable, Federico Gatti is considered the probable replacement in defense.

In midfield, Davide Frattesi is the primary alternative to Tonali. Matteo Politano is also anticipated to start, despite being seen with a noticeable bandage on his shin recently.

Manuel Locatelli, Nicolò Barella, and Federico Dimarco are all strong contenders for a spot in the starting eleven.

Gianluca Scamacca has been ruled out of the semi-final due to injury, meaning Moise Kean and Mateo Retegui are likely to maintain their positions in attack.

Despite his impressive recent form, Inter striker Francesco Pio Esposito is not expected to make the starting lineup for this match.

Italy's Predicted XI (3-5-2): Donnarumma; Calafiori, Mancini, Bastoni; Politano, Locatelli, Tonali, Barella, Dimarco; Kean, Retegui