(Photos by Marco Luzzani and Tom Dulat/Getty Images)
Italy head coach Gennaro Gattuso has confirmed that Federico Chiesa turned down an invitation to join the national team for their November international fixtures, leaving fans and pundits stunned.
The Italy boss revealed that he had hoped to include the Liverpool forward in his squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Moldova and Norway, but Chiesa personally declined the call-up.
Speaking to reporters, Gattuso said (via Mail Sport):
> “I often speak with him. Everyone has their own situations, and I have to respect that. What we discuss remains between us, but I must respect his decisions. I can’t add anything more.”
When pressed on whether it was Chiesa’s choice not to join the squad, the coach replied:
> “Yes, I’ve already explained this several times.”
The decision comes as a surprise, especially considering that the 28-year-old has not featured for Italy since the Euro 2024 tournament, when the defending champions were eliminated by Switzerland. Since his summer move to Liverpool, Chiesa has struggled to cement a regular starting role, making only two starts this season — both in the Carabao Cup — and playing just 344 minutes across all competitions, according to Transfermarkt.
Gattuso had earlier mentioned that Chiesa didn’t feel “100% fit” during the previous international window in October, but maintained consistent communication with the player.
Italian media outlets have suggested that Napoli are monitoring the situation closely, with reports claiming they’re keen to bring Chiesa back to Serie A in the near future.
While his decision to skip international duty has raised eyebrows, many believe it could be a move to focus on regaining form and fitness at club level. For Liverpool, that’s not necessarily bad news — Arne Slot will be eager to have Chiesa fully fit and firing as the Reds continue their push across domestic and European fronts.
As for Italy, Gattuso’s side will have to do without one of their most talented attackers for yet another international break — a situation that continues to spark debate among Azzurri supporters.
—
Would you like me to write a suspenseful snippet post for this story next — in your viral, curiosity-driven style?
Leave a Reply