ROME: Controversial striker Mario Balotelli was left out again as Italy coach Roberto Mancini brought three new players into his squad for upcoming fixtures on Friday.
The Azzurri, still rebuilding after missing out on last summer’s World Cup, face Portugal in a key Nations League match on November 17 and the United States of America in Genk, Belgium, in a friendly on November 20.
Brescia midfielder Sandro Tonali, Sassuolo midfielder Stefano Sensi, and Hoffenheim striker Vincenzo Grifo are the new faces.
Balotelli, still struggling to make an impact this season with Ligue 1 club Nice, missed out again after not being included in the squad for the October fixtures against Ukraine and Poland.
Italy captain and Juventus veteran Giorgio Chiellini could win his 100th cap if he features in either of the games later this month.