Italy have announced a 15-man squad for the upcoming European Championships in Belgrade after securing a 15–12 friendly win over Montenegro, as head coach Alessandro Campagna continues his ongoing renewal of the national team.
As already confirmed, Campagna has implemented a notable refresh of the squad, leaving out six experienced players who featured at the 2025 World Championships from preparations for the European Championships. That renewal is counterbalanced by the return of experience in goal, with Marco Del Lungo recalled to the national team after a year away.
Club representation is dominated by AN Brescia, who account for six of the 15 selected players—a figure that could yet rise due to uncertainty in the goalkeeping department. Campagna originally named Del Lungo alongside Francesco De Michelis, but De Michelis has since fallen ill. If he is unable to recover in time, the Italian Swimming Federation has confirmed that Tommaso Baggi Necchi (Brescia) will be called up as his replacement.
The squad features just one player currently based abroad, with Edoardo Di Somma selected from Ferencváros. At domestic level, Pro Recco are represented by three players.
Before travelling to Belgrade, Italy will take part in a high-level preparatory tournament in Trebinje from January 3–6. In the group stage, the Azzurri will face Serbia and Spain, before meeting one of Hungary, Greece or France on the final day.
Italy squad for the European Championships
Goalkeepers:
Marco Del Lungo (Savona), Francesco De Michelis (Olympic Roma)
Field players:
Alessandro Balzarini, Mario Del Basso, Vincenzo Dolce, Tommaso Gianazza, Jacopo Alesiani, Filippo Ferrero (all Brescia)
Edoardo Di Somma (Ferencváros)
Francesco Cassia, Francesco Condemi, Matteo Iocchi Gratta (all Pro Recco)
Lorenzo Bruni (Savona)
Mattia Antonucci (Roma Vis Nova)
Alessandro Carnesecchi (Ortigia)
Reserve:
Tommaso Baggi Necchi (Brescia)
At the European Water Polo Championships, Italy will compete in Group C during the first phase of the tournament, alongside Romania, Slovakia and Türkiye, as Campagna’s refreshed “Settebello” begin their European campaign.
