Gattuso Addresses Chiesa’s Italy Absence Amid World Cup Drama

Federico Chiesa’s Italy future has become a central issue as Gennaro Gattuso gave a blunt assessment of the Liverpool winger’s repeated national team snubs. With the 2026 World Cup play-offs looming, the Azzurri face serious questions about squad unity and attacking options.

Federico Chiesa’s Italy Future in the Spotlight

Federico Chiesa’s Italy future is in doubt after he once again declined a place in the national team squad, rejecting call-ups from head coach Gennaro Gattuso ahead of crucial World Cup play-off matches. Chiesa, currently at Liverpool and enjoying a productive season with two goals and three assists, has now turned down four or five invitations to rejoin the Azzurri setup since Gattuso took charge.

The drama surrounding Chiesa has cast a shadow over Italy’s preparations for a make-or-break play-off campaign. Italy must first face a tough Northern Ireland side in the semi-final, with the possibility of meeting either Wales or Bosnia-Herzegovina in a high-stakes final soon after.

Gattuso’s Unfiltered Response to Chiesa Rejections

Gattuso has not hidden his frustration with the situation. When pressed about Chiesa’s continual absence, the Italian boss was clear: “He has the problem, not me. You always ask me the same thing. I call Chiesa up every time; I always talk to him. The problem is not with us—it’s with him.”

Earlier this month, Gattuso reiterated his stance, stating: “I often talk with Chiesa. We have to respect each individual’s decisions and problems. I can only respect what he tells me.” The coach further emphasized that the decision to skip national team duty has come solely from Chiesa. “Yes, it’s already the fourth or fifth time I’m explaining this.”

Chiesa’s Club Form Complicates the Picture

Chiesa’s absence is all the more frustrating given his recent impact at Liverpool, where he earned a Player of the Month award in September. Despite not starting every game, Chiesa has contributed significantly with his direct play and creativity, qualities Italy sorely miss. His last outing for the national team came in Euro 2024, when the Azzurri were knocked out by Switzerland in the Round of 16—a defeat that triggered national debate and criticism.

Italy’s World Cup Route Carries Extra Pressure

Italy’s qualifying campaign for the 2026 World Cup ended in disappointment, as they finished second in their group behind Norway and suffered a heavy 4-1 loss to the same opponents. This unstable run has raised concerns about the team’s depth and attacking threat, especially with Chiesa unavailable. Gattuso now faces the challenge of relying on less experienced wide options as Italy attempt to secure their spot in the tournament via a notoriously difficult play-off route.

Gattuso’s Tactics Without Chiesa

With Chiesa’s Italy future uncertain, Gattuso is being forced to rethink his approach. Northern Ireland presents a stern test with their disciplined, physical style—a point Gattuso acknowledged: “It’s a physical team; they never give up. We have to play it. I’ve said for three months we knew the play-offs were our path and we had to improve. We look ahead with confidence.”

If the Azzurri succeed, they will quickly face either Wales or Bosnia-Herzegovina in the final, both away from home. The lack of Chiesa’s dynamism and flair could prove to be a decisive factor as Italy try to avoid another World Cup heartbreak.

How Chiesa’s Absence Impacts Italy’s Attack

Chiesa’s Italy future remains a concern not just for the coaching staff but also for fans who have seen the winger deliver in big moments. His ability to break lines and create chances is unique among Italy’s current attacking options. As the Azzurri struggle for consistency, missing such a key talent at a critical time puts even more weight on Gattuso’s tactical decisions and the performances of the squad’s less heralded players.

What’s Next for Italy and Chiesa?

As the March play-offs approach, uncertainty around Federico Chiesa’s Italy future dominates discussions. Gattuso insists he will continue to reach out, but also makes it clear the decision is now entirely in Chiesa’s hands. The Liverpool star’s repeated withdrawals raise questions about his long-term role with the national team and whether a reconciliation is possible before the World Cup.

For the latest updates on this developing story and more news, visit for more news.

Opinion: Time for Clarity on Chiesa’s Role

From an outside perspective, both Federico Chiesa and Gennaro Gattuso need to provide greater clarity for the sake of the team’s unity and morale. Chiesa’s talent is undeniable, but without full commitment to the national cause, Italy risk heading into crucial matches without one of their few genuine difference-makers. Strong leadership and open communication are needed to resolve this saga before it further destabilizes Italy’s World Cup ambitions.