Giampiero Ventura’s reign as Italy manager begins today with a pre-World Cup qualifying friendly against France in Bari.

And the 68-year-old says he hopes “it’s the beginning of something productive” following his appointment as new Chelsea boss Antonio Conte’s successor.

Italy, Euro 2016 quarter-finalists, take on the tournament runners-up in a preparation clash before launching their World Cup qualifying campaign against Israel in Haifa next week.

Ventura has retained the majority of Conte’s squad, including 15 of the group involved in France.

Ventura said: “I had said that I would keep nearly all of the group that did well at the Euros. I’ve found all the lads to be really committed, and I hope it’s the beginning of something productive.

“At the Euros, the national team showed organisation, commitment on behalf of the players, and closeness as a group. If we can add some detail to these principles, nothing will stop us from becoming one of most respected sides in world football again.”

Ventura’s squad includes the likes of Juve trio Gianluigi Buffon, Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci, and there is a recall for Marco Verratti but there could also be opportunities for fresh talent.

Milan keeper Gianluigi Donna-rumma, aged 17, would become Italy’s youngest senior international for 105 years if he features against France, while debuts could also loom for Andrea Belotti and Alessio Romagnoli.

France, meanwhile, are back in action following their Euro 2016 final defeat against Portugal, travelling to Stadio San Nicola before launching their World Cup qualifying programme away to Belarus next Tuesday.

“There is a lot of happiness and pride in what we did, even though we did not manage to lift the trophy,” France’s star Euro 2016 performer Antoine Griezmann told reporters.

“I will remain the same player, who takes pleasure on the field, who likes to make jokes in the locker room.”

France boss Didier Deschamps has two thirds of his Euro 2016 squad to call upon, although injury sidelines goalkeeper and captain Hugo Lloris.

Among those hoping to impress Deschamps are Ousmane Dembele and Kevin Gameiro, with Dembele strongly backed to make an international bow.

Today’s Friendlies

Belgium vs Spain 20.45
Italy vs France 21.00
Netherlands vs Greece 20.45
Portugal vs Gibraltar 20.45