Cutrone, Chiesa in Italy squad but no place for Balotelli

Patrick Cutrone and Federico Chiesa, both 20-year-old forwards, have received their first call-ups to Italy’s squad for friendlies against Argentina and England.

Mario Balotelli remained excluded despite his strong form with Nice.

Italy faces Argentina on Friday in Manchester, England, then plays England in London four days later.

Under-21 coach Luigi Di Biagio will make his senior squad debut on a caretaker basis after Gian Piero Ventura was fired.

Captain Gianluigi Buffon is back in the squad, having nixed his retirement plans announced immediately after the playoff.

Italy