Italy head coach Gennaro Gattuso has recalled Liverpool forward Federico Chiesa to the national team squad after a two-year absence, ahead of their decisive FIFA World Cup play-off clash with Northern Ireland.
Chiesa, 28, last represented Italy during the Euro 2024 round-of-16 match against Switzerland, and his return is seen as a major boost for the four-time world champions as they aim to secure a spot at the upcoming World Cup.
Gattuso has announced a 28-man squad for Thursday’s high-stakes play-off in Bergamo, with the winner set to face either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the final qualification round. Notably, Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario is absent, while Marco Palestra earns his first senior call-up. Midfielder Niccolò Pisilli and defender Giorgio Scalvini also return to the national setup after extended breaks.
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Italy, one of the most decorated teams in international football, are under pressure to end a drought that has seen them miss the last two World Cups. Chiesa’s inclusion is expected to add creativity and firepower to an attack determined to reclaim Italy’s place on the global stage.
Northern Ireland, meanwhile, has named Dan Ballard despite a hamstring concern, signalling the team’s resolve to challenge Italy for the coveted World Cup berth. Analysts predict a tense and closely contested match, with both sides aware that a win will bring them one step closer to football’s most prestigious tournament.
