Roberto Mancini has once again been tasked with revitalizing an Italy team in crisis.

Andrea Pirlo is out of contention for the Italy job amid political concerns over a sponsorship deal with a Russian betting firm.

The Italian soccer federation has talked to Pep Guardiola and Carlo Ancelotti about leading the national team.

Defending champion Spain and France have needed penalty shootouts to reach the Nations League semifinals and join Germany and Portugal.