Italy Announces 39-Man Training Squad for Upcoming Internationals
Italy’s head coach Gonzalo Quesada has unveiled a 39-man training squad in preparation for the upcoming international matches against Samoa, Japan, and Tonga.
The squad features nine uncapped players, including former England U20s back Matt Gallagher, who is set to join Benetton ahead of the 2024/25 season. Gallagher, who is eligible for Italy through his mother’s family, as well as England, Ireland, and New Zealand through his father, John Gallagher, a member of the 1987 Rugby World Cup-winning team, has been called up alongside other debutants Muhamed Hasa, Giampietro Ribaldi, Giulio Marini, and Giovanni Montemauri.
Quesada has also turned to French clubs, selecting Catres’ hooker Loris Zarantonello and Oyonnax’s inspirational Azzurri U20 captain and flanker David Odiase, whose motivational speeches during his time leading the Italian U20s went viral last year. Clermont centre Francois Mey is another uncapped player included in the training squad.
“We have chosen a quality, strong and very balanced squad for this Summer Tour,” said Quesada. “We know the value of our opponents, especially when they play at home: they won’t be easy games.”
The head coach also noted that the squad reflects the same principle as the Six Nations, with some young players integrated into an experienced group, with the dual objective of developing for the present and the future.
Italy’s 39-man training squad includes a mix of established names and promising talent, as they prepare to face Samoa, Tonga, and Japan in their upcoming international fixtures.
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