Italy have been hit with a major injury blow ahead of the upcoming Euro 2024.
Three years ago, Italy became the champions of Europe after they beat England in the final via a tense penalty shootout in front of a packed crowd inside Wembley Stadium in London.
Since then, Roberto Mancini has vacated his role as manager after he failed to lead the team to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Now with Luciano Spalletti at the helm, Gli Azzurri will be looking to defend their title.
However, with the tournament set to get underway in less than two weeks, Italy have been hit with a huge injury blow.
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During the final Serie A match of the 23/24 season between Atalanta and Fiorentina, the Europa League winners’ defender Giorgio Scalvini was replaced by Hans Hateboer in the 84th minute.
It was then reported that Scalvini would be ruled out of the Euro 2024 after sustaining an anterior cruciate ligament injury.
Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano wrote on social media: “Giorgio Scalvini has torn his ACL in his left knee and he will miss Euro 2024.
“Atalanta defender will be back in January… get well soon.”
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Scalvini was originally included in Spalletti’s provisional squad ahead of the tournament after impressing at Atalanta.
The 20-year-old made a total of 44 appearances across all competitions for his side, including a substitute appearance during the Europa League final against Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen.
On social media, Atalanta sent a message to Scalvini which read: "We’re all with you, Giorgio Scalvini."
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Italy will prepare for the tournament with two friendly matches against Turkey and Bosnia.
The reigning champions will then get their title defence underway against Albania on June 15. Italy will then take on Spain and Croatia in what is billed as the Group of Death.
Marcus Chan