Roberto Mancini is shaping what could be a fresh start for the Azzurri as reports suggest he will add 1. FC Nürnberg winger Mohamed Ali Zoma to his squad for the September‑October Nations League window. The move would mark the first senior international appearance for the 22‑year‑old, who has been a standout in the 2. Bundesliga this season.
Why Zoma is on Mancini’s Radar
Zoma arrived in Germany last summer after a €1.5 million transfer from Serie C side AlbinoLeffe. In the 2025‑26 campaign he recorded 19 goal involvements - 14 goals and five assists - across 29 league games, a return that placed him among the league’s most productive attackers. He has continued that form into the new season, finding the net five times in his first five appearances for Nürnberg.
International Context and Italy’s Recent Woes
The upcoming Nations League break is longer than usual, spanning two weeks and featuring matches against Belgium, Turkey, France and a second encounter with Turkey. It will be Mancini’s first set of games after taking over from Gennaro Gattuso earlier this summer. Italy missed out on a spot at the 2026 World Cup, a disappointment that has prompted the coach to inject fresh talent and secure dual‑nationality players before other nations can claim them.
Zoma’s Eligibility and Personal Background
Born and raised in Merate, Italy, Zoma also holds eligibility for Burkina Faso and the Ivory Coast through his parents. The dual‑nationality factor adds a strategic layer for Italy, as the federation aims to lock down promising players who might otherwise be courted by African nations.
Club’s Stance and Market Value
Nürnberg have made it clear they want to retain Zoma, valuing him at around €20 million. Despite interest from other clubs toward the close of the summer window, the German side has resisted offers, hoping the player’s development continues on their platform.
What Mancini Said
In a recent interview with Sky Sport DE, Zoma confirmed a conversation with Mancini. He said the coach told him he is being watched closely and that continued performance would determine a call‑up. The sentiment was echoed by Tuttosport, which described the Italy invitation as “increasingly close”.
Potential Impact on Italy’s Squad
If Zoma makes the final roster, he would provide Italy with a pace‑driven option on the flanks, complementing the more established wide men. His goal‑scoring instinct could also add a new dimension to a side that struggled to convert chances in the previous international cycle.
Looking Ahead
Should the call‑up materialise, Zoma will join a squad that blends seasoned veterans with a handful of newcomers. The next two weeks will be crucial for him to showcase his ability on the international stage and for Mancini to set the tone for a rebuilding era.
Mancini’s interest in Zoma is a smart gamble that could inject much‑needed energy into Italy’s attack. The winger’s recent goal spree shows he can handle pressure, and a debut could be a win‑win for both player and country.
Tactically, Zoma offers width and a direct threat that could stretch opponents in the Nations League. Strategically, securing his allegiance now prevents a potential loss to Burkina Faso or Ivory Coast, safeguarding Italy’s talent pool.
Preguntas Frecuentes
No, Zoma has not yet made a senior appearance for Italy; the upcoming Nations League squad would be his first call‑up.
He recorded 14 goals and five assists, totaling 19 goal involvements in 29 league matches.
Italy wants to secure dual‑nationality players after missing the 2026 World Cup, and Zoma’s form and eligibility make him a valuable addition.