(Football news) Italy have had a rough couple of matches recently. After failing to qualify for the World Cup for the 2nd time in a row they were completely destroyed in the Finalissima by Argentina. It has been shocking in many ways as it's not even a year since Italy won the Euros. Germany on the other hand have had some failures at big tournaments. Now under Hansi Flick they are going through a rebuild of sorts. The two teams along with England and Hungary will be fighting for a spot in the Nations League finals essentially making it the group of death. 

After a terrible performance against Argentina, Roberto Mancini is expected to make a few changes. Giorgio Chiellini's international retirement means that Leonardo Bonucci will have a new defensive partner. Marco Verratti could return to the line-up after recovering from his injury. As for Germany, Marc Andre Ter Stegan, Matt Hummels and Julian Draxler aren't even in the squad. Thomas Muller should start the game along with club teammates Leroy Sane and Serge Gnabry. Chelsea duo Timo Werner and Kai Havertz will also be in contention to start while Marco Reus is a doubt due to fitness issues.

Italy possible starting XI:

Donnarumma; Di Lorenzo, Bonucci, Bastoni, Biraghi; Barella, Verratti, Tonali; Bernardeschi, Belotti, Insigne

Germany possible starting XI:

Neuer; Kehrer, Rudiger, Schlotterbeck, Raum; Kimmich, Musiala; Gnabry, Muller, Sane; Werner

The key battle is going to be in the midfield between Joshua Kimmich and Marco Verratti. The winner of this battle is likely to lead their side to victory. The match will feature two of the best keepers in the world as both Manuel Neuer and Gianluigi Donnarumma are very important for their respective teams. The pace of Germany on the counter attack is going to be a huge problem for Italy and their fullbacks will have to be extremely cautious with their approach. 

Also read: A day full of surprises in the UEFA Nations League