Liverpool winger ruled out ahead of World Cup playoff; Italy coach reshuffles squad as injury concerns mount
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Italy’s preparations for a crucial World Cup qualifying playoff have taken another hit, with Federico Chiesa forced to withdraw from the national team due to fitness concerns.
The Italian Football Federation confirmed that the Liverpool winger has left the training camp at Coverciano after medical evaluations deemed him unavailable for the upcoming matches. The decision was made in agreement with his club, bringing an abrupt end to what was expected to be his long-awaited return to the Azzurri setup.
For Gennaro Gattuso, it’s a frustrating setback at a pivotal moment. Italy are set to face Northern Ireland in a decisive playoff in Bergamo, with qualification for the 2026 World Cup hanging in the balance.
A comeback postponed
Chiesa’s absence is particularly disappointing given the context. The winger had not featured for Italy in nearly two years, with his last appearance coming during the Euro 2024 elimination against Switzerland.
Gattuso had made multiple attempts to bring him back into the fold over recent months, only to be turned down as the player worked to regain full fitness. This time, the call-up finally came—but his limited playing time at club level, totaling just over 600 minutes this season, ultimately proved insufficient.
Now, that comeback will have to wait once again.
Cambiaghi gets the call
In response, Gattuso has turned to Nicolò Cambiaghi of Bologna, a versatile attacking option capable of fitting into multiple tactical systems.
Cambiaghi’s inclusion reflects Gattuso’s desire for flexibility. The Bologna winger can operate in different roles, allowing Italy to switch formations mid-game—from a 3-5-2 to a more attacking 3-4-2-1 or even a 4-2-4 when chasing a result.
He was one of several candidates under consideration for the role, alongside players like Mattia Zaccagni and Riccardo Orsolini. In the end, current form and tactical suitability tipped the balance in his favor.
Injury concerns continue
Chiesa’s withdrawal is not the only issue facing Italy’s coaching staff. Several other players arrived at camp carrying knocks, leaving their availability uncertain.
Alessandro Bastoni is still dealing with a lingering tibia problem, while Gianluca Mancini is recovering from a calf issue sustained in Roma’s recent league match. Meanwhile, Gianluca Scamacca is battling an adductor injury but is pushing to be available.
Gattuso is expected to monitor all three closely in the coming days before making final decisions.
A delicate balance
Beyond the immediate squad adjustments, Gattuso’s choices reflect a broader philosophy: building a cohesive group not only based on talent, but also on chemistry and adaptability.
The Italian coach has leaned heavily on a core group of players developed through recent training camps, prioritizing tactical understanding and locker-room balance alongside technical ability.
With the stakes higher than ever, Italy now faces a defining moment—without one of its most explosive attacking talents.
The road to the 2026 World Cup just got more complicated.
