Both players push to stay with the squad despite injuries as Gattuso faces mounting selection concerns
Italy’s buildup to a निर्ण decisive World Cup playoff is being overshadowed by growing injury concerns, with Alessandro Bastoni and Gianluca Scamacca both in doubt—but determined not to miss out.
Despite their respective fitness issues, both players have asked to join the squad at Coverciano, signaling a strong sense of commitment within Italy national football team. Head coach Gennaro Gattuso has welcomed their decision, opting to delay any final call on replacements until after further medical evaluations.
A show of unity
While their availability remains uncertain, the attitude of both Bastoni and Scamacca has been seen as a positive sign inside the camp.
“They want to be there,” is the message filtering through, underlining the importance of team spirit at such a crucial moment in Italy’s campaign.
Even goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario—forced to withdraw due to surgery for a hernia—has asked to be present in Bergamo to support his teammates from the stands. It’s a reflection of the collective mindset Gattuso has been trying to build.
Different levels of concern
Among the two injury cases, Bastoni’s situation appears less alarming. The defender’s recent absence at club level is believed to be precautionary, and there is cautious optimism he could still be available.
Scamacca’s case, however, is more complicated. The striker is dealing with a muscle injury to his right adductor, and while he has already begun rehabilitation, his timeline remains uncertain.
Gattuso is expected to monitor both players closely, with the possibility that Scamacca could still play a role—if not immediately, then later in the tie.
Depth under pressure
Italy’s squad has already been stretched in recent weeks, with several players sidelined due to injuries. While not all were guaranteed starters, the accumulation of absences is starting to test the depth of the roster.
If Bastoni is ultimately ruled out, Italy would need to reshuffle their defensive line, with options including more physical center-backs like Federico Gatti or Diego Coppola, or a more technical profile such as Giorgio Scalvini.
In attack, Scamacca’s potential absence would further crowd an already competitive striker pool featuring Mateo Retegui, Moise Kean, and Francesco Pio Esposito. Alternative solutions—such as deploying more versatile attackers—remain on the table.
A defining moment
With qualification on the line, Italy’s approach reflects a broader reality: success in modern football often depends on more than just the starting eleven.
“In these matches, you win with 16 players, not 11,” is the underlying philosophy shaping Gattuso’s decisions.
As kickoff approaches, the Azzurri face not only their opponent—but also the race against time to have key players fit and ready.
