The extra-busy first international break took a significant physical toll on the Azzurri. A bunch of them missed the final game against Lithuania due to minor injuries. Their availability for the next Serie A round is in question. Most of the problems are minor, but the situation is affecting multiple teams. Stefano Sensi and Nicolò Zaniolo were among those who got hurt. However, they handled the circumstance differently, and coach Roberto Mancini reacted accordingly.
The Inter midfielder should have replaced Jorginho Wednesday. Instead, he did not make the squad list due to discomfort in his calf. The Chelsea playmaker was the only Italian player to start in all three fixtures. Upon heading back to Milan, Sensi posted on Instagram: “It is fine guys, I have nothing.” He could be in the XI Sunday versus Sampdoria because Lautaro Martinez and Joaquin Correa will return late from Argentina. According to Corriere della Sera, Mancini did not like the turn of events and might exclude him from the next call-ups.
On the other hand, Zaniolo picked up a thigh bruise. Still, he stayed with the national team in Reggio Emilia for the initial rehab. Mancini appreciated the gesture, as the two have built a strong bond, Corriere dello Sport informs. Federico Chiesa and Ciro Immobile left early due to thigh issues. Both avoided strains, but it appears that the Juventus winger is in worse shape, and the Bianconeri might play it safe in the Napoli clash. The Lazio striker should be good to go for the Milan bout.