The wait is nearly over for Italian football fans as coach Gennaro Gattuso prepares to announce the Azzurri squad for their crucial World Cup playoff matches. The team is chasing qualification to the tournament for the first time since 2014, and all eyes are on Gattuso’s selections as he aims to navigate a path to the 2026 World Cup. The official announcement is expected Friday, and the squad will face Northern Ireland in the semi-final, with a potential final against either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina looming.
Gattuso is reportedly finalizing a 28-man roster, built around a clear tactical vision. Although last-minute doubts remain, the coach appears to have a strong idea of his preferred lineup and the players he trusts to deliver on the international stage. The team is expected to line up in a pragmatic 3-5-2 formation, a system that will inevitably lead to difficult decisions and some notable exclusions.
Gattuso’s Certainties: A Solid Foundation
Several players appear to have a guaranteed spot in the squad. In goal, Gianluigi Donnarumma remains the undisputed number one, supported by Marco Carnesecchi and Guglielmo Vicario. Alex Meret is expected to secure the fourth goalkeeper slot, edging out Caprile.
Defense presents a relatively straightforward picture, particularly with some injuries influencing the selection process. Alessandro Bastoni, Gianluca Mancini, and Riccardo Calafiori are considered certainties. They will likely be joined by Alessandro Buongiorno, Federico Gatti, and Giorgio Scalvini, with Coppola’s inclusion still under consideration.
The full-back positions also seem settled. Federico Dimarco and Andrea Cambiaso are undroppable, while Leonardo Spinazzola is expected to feature. A surprise inclusion could be Palestra, who has enjoyed a convincing season with his club.
Midfield is expected to be anchored by the established trio of Nicolò Barella, Sandro Tonali, and Manuel Locatelli. Bryan Cristante and Davide Frattesi provide reliable backup and alternative options, while Pisilli represents a potential wildcard.
Attack and Exclusions: The Toughest Choices
The forward line presents the most significant selection dilemmas for Gattuso. The 3-5-2 system naturally limits opportunities for traditional wingers, forcing the coach to make difficult choices. Matteo Politano is considered a lock due to his versatility. With Mattia Zaccagni sidelined for approximately 30-40 days due to a muscle injury, Riccardo Orsolini is emerging as a strong contender for the final attacking spot.
Several high-profile players are expected to miss out. Federico Chiesa, due to limited playing time at Liverpool, is reportedly unlikely to be included. Domenico Berardi, still recovering from injury, is also expected to be absent. These omissions highlight the shift in the offensive hierarchy under Gattuso.
Up front, Moise Kean and Mateo Retegui are leading the charge, with Pio Esposito and Gianluca Scamacca providing depth. Giacomo Raspadori’s inclusion hinges on his physical condition.
Notably, experienced midfielders Marco Verratti and Jorginho have also been left out, signaling Gattuso’s commitment to a new, more dynamic squad aligned with modern footballing demands.
The upcoming playoff matches are critical for Italy’s hopes of returning to the World Cup stage. The pressure is immense, and Gattuso’s selections will be scrutinized by fans and media alike. The team faces Northern Ireland in the semi-final, a match that will set the stage for a potential final showdown against either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina.
This Italy squad, built on a foundation of tactical balance and courageous choices, faces a monumental task. The question remains: will this team have what it takes to overcome the challenges and secure a place at the 2026 World Cup?
Next up for Italy is the semi-final clash against Northern Ireland. The match is scheduled for next week, and the Azzurri will be looking to make a statement and advance to the final round of the playoffs. Fans can follow official updates and team news on the Italian Football Federation’s website (https://www.figc.it/en/).
