Bergamo, Italy – A blow to Italy’s hopes for World Cup qualification as forward Federico Chiesa has been ruled out of the upcoming playoff against Northern Ireland. The Liverpool player, after arriving at the national team’s training center in Coverciano, was deemed unfit to participate in the crucial matches, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) announced on Saturday. Bologna’s Nicolò Cambiaghi has been called up as a replacement for the semifinal clash scheduled for Thursday, March 26th at 8:45 PM local time (20:45 CET) at the Stadio di Bergamo.
The news comes as a disappointment for both fans and coach Gennaro Gattuso, who had hoped to see Chiesa return to the national team after a nearly two-year absence. Chiesa had previously declined call-ups at the end of 2025, citing a lack of readiness, but accepted this latest invitation. Still, after assessment by the national team’s medical staff, it was determined he wasn’t able to contribute to the playoff campaign.
This playoff represents a final opportunity for Italy to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup. The Azzurri will face Northern Ireland in the semifinal, with a potential final against either Bosnia or Wales awaiting the winner. The stakes are incredibly high for a nation that missed out on the last two major international tournaments.
Italy’s Squad for the Playoff
Gattuso has named a squad featuring a blend of experienced veterans and emerging talent. Here’s a look at the full roster:
- Goalkeepers: Elia Caprile (Cagliari), Marco Carnesecchi (Atalanta), Gianluigi Donnarumma (Manchester City), Alex Meret (Napoli)
- Defenders: Alessandro Bastoni (Inter), Alessandro Buongiorno (Napoli), Riccardo Calafiori (Arsenal), Andrea Cambiaso (Juventus), Diego Coppola (Paris FC), Federico Dimarco (Inter), Federico Gatti (Juventus), Gianluca Mancini (Roma), Marco Palestra (Cagliari), Giorgio Scalvini (Atalanta), Leonardo Spinazzola (Napoli)
- Midfielders: Nicolo’ Barella (Inter), Bryan Cristante (Roma), Davide Frattesi (Inter), Manuel Locatelli (Juventus), Niccolo’ Pisilli (Roma), Sandro Tonali (Newcastle)
- Forwards: Nicolo’ Cambiaghi (Bologna), Francesco Pio Esposito (Inter), Moise Kean (Fiorentina), Matteo Politano (Napoli), Giacomo Raspadori (Atalanta), Mateo Retegui (Al-Qadsiah), Gianluca Scamacca (Atalanta)
The inclusion of Cambiaghi provides Gattuso with another attacking option, though he’s a relatively new face in the national team setup. The Bologna forward will be eager to make an impact if given the opportunity.
Chiesa’s situation is particularly noteworthy given his recent appearances for Liverpool. Reports indicate he has featured in recent matches for the Premier League side, even playing a quarter of an hour against Brighton and receiving a yellow card. This raises questions about the nature of his unavailability, though the FIGC statement indicates the decision was made in agreement with Liverpool.
For Italy, the focus now shifts to preparing for the match against Northern Ireland. The Stadio di Bergamo is expected to be packed with passionate supporters, creating a fervent atmosphere for this pivotal encounter. The match will be a test of Italy’s resilience and tactical flexibility as they aim to overcome this setback and keep their World Cup dreams alive.
The absence of Chiesa undoubtedly alters Italy’s attacking options. He’s a dynamic player capable of creating chances and scoring goals, and his experience would have been valuable. However, Gattuso will require to rally his squad and find a way to compensate for his absence. Cambiaghi’s inclusion adds a different dimension to the attack, and it will be compelling to see how the coach utilizes him.
Italy’s path to the World Cup is far from straightforward, but they have a talented squad and a determined coach. The semifinal against Northern Ireland is the first hurdle, and overcoming it will be crucial to securing a place in the tournament. The match promises to be a tense and exciting affair, with everything on the line for both teams.
Following the match against Northern Ireland, the potential final against Bosnia or Wales will present another significant challenge. Italy will need to be at their best to navigate these playoffs and book their ticket to the World Cup. The entire nation will be watching with hope and anticipation.
Next up for Italy is the crucial World Cup playoff semifinal against Northern Ireland on Thursday, March 26th at 8:45 PM CET at the Stadio di Bergamo. Stay tuned to Archysport for continued coverage and analysis.
