Italy turn to Federico Chiesa after 2-year absence for FIFA World Cup 2026 playoffs

FIFA World Cup 2026: Federico Chiesa returns to the Italy squad for the first time in two years as Gattuso's side looks to avoid a third consecutive World Cup absence in the upcoming playoffs.

Federico Chiesa has been handed an Italy recall for the first time in almost two years as the Azzurri look to avoid missing a third consecutive World Cup. Coach Gennaro Gattuso named a 28-man squad on Friday for the upcoming playoffs, with the four-time world champions facing a must-win two-legged tie to book their place at the 2026 tournament.

Italy face Northern Ireland in Bergamo on Thursday before travelling to take on either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina five days later. Win both, and they are through. Lose, and they will have gone at least 16 years without featuring at the World Cup.

Chiesa, 28, last played for Italy at Euro 2024, where they were knocked out by Switzerland in the round of 16. The forward was part of the squad that won the European Championship in 2021 but has since struggled to hold down a regular spot in the national team setup.

His club form has not helped his cause. Chiesa moved from Juventus to Liverpool in August 2024 but has managed just one Premier League start this season. Despite the lack of minutes, he has become a fan favourite at Anfield for his energy and passion whenever called upon.

Gattuso has also used the squad announcement to hand out a first senior Italy call-up to Cagliari defender Marco Palestra. The young defender's inclusion signals a willingness to look beyond the established names as Italy seek fresh options.

Atalanta defender Giorgio Scalvini and Roma midfielder Niccol Pisilli also return to the fold after absences of almost two years, giving Gattuso more depth to work with heading into the playoffs.