Issa Doumbia made his first start for Italy against Türkiye and gave Roberto Mancini another reason to keep him in the conversation.
The Sporting CP midfielder was among Italy’s strongest performers in the 3–1 win in Bologna. Playing on the left side of midfield, Doumbia repeatedly carried the ball forward from deeper positions, threatened the Turkish goal and played an important role in the move that led to Francesco Pio Esposito’s goal. Sky Sport Italia praised his ability to drive forward, while Tuttosport also highlighted his contribution on both sides of the ball.
It was a significant step for a player whose career has moved quickly. Doumbia developed at AlbinoLeffe before joining Venezia, where his performances earned him a move to Sporting CP. His progress has now carried him into Mancini’s senior Italy squad and, against Türkiye, into the starting XI.
Mancini’s assessment after the match added further context. While discussing two of the newer players in his squad, the Italy coach said Antonio Vergara still needs matches at this level to develop and described Doumbia as being further ahead in that process.
One start is too small a sample to define Doumbia’s place in this Italy side. Bologna did establish something more immediate: when Mancini gave him his opportunity, Doumbia looked ready for it.
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