France’s players were left frustrated after Thursday’s defeat at San Siro, with Cherki particularly angry following an exchange with Barcola during the game.
According to RMC Sport, the Manchester City midfielder was visibly agitated after the final whistle, having already clashed with his international team-mate during the first half. The report described an apparent misunderstanding between the pair as Italy began to take control of the contest.
France had made a promising start when Michael Olise opened the scoring after 10 minutes, but Francesco Pio Esposito equalised before half-time. Davide Frattesi put Italy ahead in the second half before Esposito converted a penalty to complete his brace and secure a 3-1 victory.
The result sent Italy above France at the top of Nations League Group A1, with both teams on 10 points and Belgium one point behind. The final round of fixtures will determine the two sides progressing to the quarter-finals.
Cherki and Barcola now share a club rivalry as well as their international connection. Barcola joined Liverpool from Paris Saint-Germain in a deal worth up to £123million in August, while Cherki moved to Manchester City from Lyon in June 2025 for £34million.
The French midfielder has made an encouraging start to the 2026-27 Premier League campaign, registering five goals and two assists in nine appearances for City.
However, the defeat in Milan was a difficult evening for Zinedine Zidane’s side. It was the former Real Madrid manager’s first loss since taking charge of France, and the reaction inside the squad reflected the disappointment of surrendering an early lead.
Cherki’s frustration will now have to be channelled into France’s final group fixture against Turkey on Sunday. A result in Bordeaux would secure their place in the Nations League quarter-finals, while Italy travel to Belgium with top spot still to be decided.