As the excitement builds for the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifying playoffs, the Italian national team faces a significant setback with the news that Federico Chiesa has been dropped from the squad due to injury. Just a few days before the crucial matches against Northern Ireland and Wales, Chiesa’s condition was assessed at the Federal Technical Centre in Bergamo, where it was determined that he would be unavailable.
Chiesa, who is now 28 years old, last donned the Azzurri jersey during Euro 2024, where he showcased his talent as a key player. His contributions were vital in Italy’s Euro 2020 triumph, making this latest development particularly disheartening for fans and teammates alike.
Despite his impressive performance for Liverpool this season, where he has scored two goals and provided three assists, Chiesa’s repeated withdrawals from the national team have become a concerning trend. Coach Gattuso has expressed his frustration, stating, “You know it well. You know Chiesa’s problem. You always ask me the same thing. I call Chiesa in every call-up; I always talk to him. The problem is not Gattuso or his staff; he has a problem, not us.”
Initially, Chiesa was recalled for the World Cup play-off semi-final against Northern Ireland, but after arriving at the training camp, he was deemed unfit to participate. In his absence, Nicolo Cambiaghi has been called up to fill the void left by the talented winger.
This situation raises questions about Chiesa’s long-term fitness and his ability to contribute to the national team moving forward. His absence from the upcoming matches is not just a loss for Italy but also a blow to Chiesa’s aspirations of solidifying his place in the squad ahead of the World Cup.
As fans and analysts reflect on Chiesa’s journey, they can’t help but wonder what specific injury has sidelined him this time. Details remain unconfirmed, leaving supporters anxious about his recovery and future with the national team.
With Chiesa’s history of injuries, the Italian football community is left hoping for a swift return to form, as his talent is undeniably crucial for Italy’s success on the international stage.
