Liverpool winger Federico Chiesa has withdrawn from Italy’s November World Cup qualifiers against Moldova and Norway, manager Gennaro Gattuso confirms.
Liverpool forward Federico Chiesa has once again withdrawn from the Italy squad, ruling himself out of the November international fixtures,
Italy head coach Gennaro Gattuso has confirmed the 28-year-old winger, who has battled injuries and inconsistent playing time since joining the Reds, informed him that he was not ready to take part in Italy’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Moldova and Norway.
Speaking to journalists ahead of Italy’s fixtures, Gattuso said:
“I must respect what the player tells me. I often talk to him. We have to respect the decisions and problems that each of us has. We know well what we tell each other, and I must respect what the player tells me. I can’t say anything else.”
The Italian boss also explained that Chiesa had previously told him he did not feel “100 per cent” and only wished to rejoin the national team when he believed he could contribute fully.
“Yes, it’s already the fourth or fifth time that I’m explaining this,” Gattuso added, underlining that Chiesa’s withdrawal is not an isolated incident.
Chiesa’s absence is particularly notable given Italy’s precarious position in their World Cup qualifying group. The Azzurri face must-win fixtures as they attempt to escape the play-off spot, with Moldova visiting on Thursday before a home clash against Norway at San Siro on Sunday.
Italy’s failure to qualify for the previous two World Cups has only intensified pressure on the team and the coaching staff to secure results this time around.
From Liverpool’s standpoint, Chiesa’s decision to remain with the club offers a welcome boost. The Reds have endured a challenging start to the season, with inconsistent results leaving them outside the top positions in the Premier League.
Chiesa’s fitness and availability are vital as the club prepares for a demanding festive period, with a congested fixture list that could prove decisive in shaping the trajectory of the campaign.
Despite not being a regular starter under Arne Slot, Chiesa has impressed whenever he has been called upon. The Italian scored twice and provided three assists in 12 appearances across all competitions this season, contributing key moments that have lifted Liverpool in a period of inconsistent form.
His performances were recognised by supporters, who voted him Liverpool’s Player of the Month for September, highlighting the impact he can have even without regular starts.
Chiesa’s journey at Liverpool has been mixed. The former Juventus star has battled injuries and has not always been first-choice under Slot, yet his talent and influence are undeniable.
Last season, he endured a significant injury setback, limiting his appearances, but he has begun the new campaign in better form, demonstrating flashes of brilliance that excite fans.
In terms of international impact, Chiesa has 51 senior caps for Italy, contributing seven goals and eight assists. He played a key role in Italy’s Euro 2020 triumph but has not featured since the Euro 2024 campaign, a tournament in which Italy’s performance was widely criticised.
While the exact reasons for Chiesa’s decision remain undisclosed, the coach acknowledged that the player is managing personal or physical challenges, which he feels must take precedence over international duty at this time.
Whether Chiesa will return to the Italy squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup remains uncertain, but it is clear that the player is prioritizing his fitness, form, and happiness at Liverpool for now.
For both club and country, managing his workload carefully will be essential, especially as the next World Cup looms and Liverpool aim to compete on multiple fronts domestically and in Europe.
In summary, while Chiesa’s decision to reject Italy’s November call-up may surprise some, the move is understandable.
