Chiesa Withdraws from Italy Squad Shortly After Recall

Federico Chiesa has withdrawn from the Italy national team just days after receiving his first call-up in nearly two years.

The Liverpool winger had been selected by head coach Gennaro Gattuso for the upcoming World Cup qualifier against Northern Ireland on Thursday, with a potential follow-up fixture against either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina as Italy bid to secure a place at next summer’s tournament.

However, following his arrival at the national team camp, a decision was taken that Chiesa would not be available for selection. The 28-year-old has endured a challenging season at Liverpool, making only five starts across all competitions, including just one in the Premier League. Ongoing physical concerns have significantly limited his involvement since his move from Juventus.

In an official statement, the Italian Football Federation confirmed the development:

“Federico Chiesa was assessed upon arrival at the Federal Technical Centre and deemed unavailable for the next two matches.

“In agreement with his club, he has left the squad. Bologna winger Nicolò Cambiaghi has been called up as his replacement.”

Chiesa had previously acknowledged the difficulty of adapting to the physical demands of English football following his move from Serie A. Earlier this year, he also informed Gattuso of his preference not to be considered for international duty until he had returned to full fitness.

Speaking in November, Gattuso said: “I must respect what the player tells me. I speak with him regularly, and we have to respect the decisions and challenges that each individual faces.”

Chiesa has yet to feature for Italy since joining Liverpool, with his most recent appearances for the national side coming at UEFA Euro 2024. Since making his debut in 2018, he has earned 51 senior caps and was a consistent presence in the squad up until 2024.

He played a key role in Italy’s triumph at UEFA Euro 2020, featuring in all seven matches and scoring in two knockout fixtures during the tournament.

Meanwhile, Italy are aiming to qualify for their first FIFA World Cup since 2014. They will begin their play-off campaign against Northern Ireland, who recently handed Liverpool youngster Kieran Morrison his first senior international call-up.

Italy finished second in their qualifying group behind Norway, with Gattuso replacing Luciano Spalletti during the campaign.

Several Premier League-based players have also been included in the squad for the upcoming fixtures, including Gianluigi Donnarumma, Riccardo Calafiori and Sandro Tonali.