"Davide Bartesaghi, Matteo Gabbia and Samuele Ricci are all hoping to play a role for Italy in their World Cup qualifiers next year, with the potential group opponents now decided. Yesterday, the draw for the World Cup groups took place in Washington, with several Milan legends present at the event. Italy, or rather whoever wins the play-off from path A, were drawn into Group B along with Canada, Qatar and Switzerland."
"On paper, it's a decent group for the Azzurri, but the biggest roadblock is making it through the play-offs in March. Gennaro Gattuso's men haven't exactly impressed in recent months, so there are no guarantees even if they are favourites. Italy will first be up against Northern Ireland in the semi-final at home, but the final would be played away from home against Wales or Bosnia."
"Gabbia has impressed massively for Milan this season and was called up for the last camp, but he didn't get any playing time. Ricci was also part of that squad but he only got four minutes on the pitch, tried as a mezz'ala by the manager. Both of these players are definitely eyeing a call-up for the games in March, but an eye should also be kept on Bartesaghi. The youngster has been one of the exclamation marks in Serie A this season."
Draw for World Cup groups placed the play-off winner from Path A into Group B alongside Canada, Qatar and Switzerland. Italy must first navigate March play-offs, facing Northern Ireland at home in the semi-final and either Wales or Bosnia away in the final. Gennaro Gattuso's side have underwhelmed recently, so qualification is not guaranteed despite being favourites. Matteo Gabbia impressed for Milan but saw no minutes in the last camp; Samuele Ricci had four substitute minutes as a mezz'ala. Davide Bartesaghi has excelled in Serie A this season and could earn a call-up if his form continues.
Read at SempreMilan
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