Midfield: Montolivo, Motta, De Rossi, Mauri. One of the highlights of this starting lineup is the reunion of former Sampdoria forward duo Cassano and Palazzi, who joined AC Milan and Inter Milan respectively in the winter. In addition, Chiellini has been positioned as a full-back, while the central defensive partnership of Ranocchia and Bonucci has been called "Italy's central defensive combination for the next 10 years" by AC Milan's legendary defender Baresi.
Strikers: Cassano, Palazzi
Prandelli said, "For various reasons, there is no doubt that the match against Germany is an important one. Indeed, some players have to play their seventh game in 20 days, which is why I am particularly concerned about their playing time. However, I still hope everyone will take this game seriously. This is the only game the national team has had in the past six weeks. We are here not to listen to criticism, we need to improve, and continue on our path."
This will be the first start for Brazilian-born Inter Milan player Motta representing the Italian national team. Once Motta plays in this game, it will also mean that he will no longer be able to represent the Brazil national team in the future. Previously, Motta had played for the Brazilian U-23 youth team, but with FIFA's approval, since Motta did not participate in games for the Brazilian national team, according to FIFA Article 18, the Italian Football Association can still call up Motta into the national team.
Goalkeeper: Buffon
Defenders: Cassani, Ranocchia, Bonucci, Chiellini
The central defensive pairing of Ranocchia and Bonucci was last season's defensive duo at Bari. Meanwhile, Cassano and Palazzi were partners at Sampdoria in the first half of the season. Prandelli explained that this was his deliberate arrangement: "These players have already developed默契 over a long period of time playing together, so considering the fact that the national team basically has no time to continue training, I want to make good use of their experience and understanding. I do not want a collapse to occur; I think this will be a tough game, but such games will help us grow. I hope to see a brave and execution-oriented Italian team, capable of bringing joy to our fans in Dortmund."
Attached: Starting lineup for Italy:
"To play with three forwards, Giuseppe Rossi, Cassano, and Palazzi simultaneously, the team needs better physical condition. Over time, this team has adapted to both the three-forward system and the single attacking midfielder plus two-forward system. If conditions permit, I will also experiment with the three-forward formation."
"Buffon will start, Cassani, Bonucci, Ranocchia, and Chiellini will form the backline, midfield consists of Montolivo, Motta, and De Rossi, while the front line forms a trident with Mauri, Cassano, and Palazzi." At the press conference before the Italy-Germany match, Italian head coach Prandelli announced all at once the starting lineup for tonight's friendly match.