Chiesa Withdraws from Italy’s World Cup Qualifier Roster

Post by : Mara Rahim

Forward Federico Chiesa of Liverpool has declined an invitation to represent Italy in their upcoming World Cup qualifying games, as confirmed by head coach Gennaro Gattuso on Monday. Italy is scheduled to participate in two significant matches—one away against Moldova and another at home against Norway—during their qualification campaign's final stretch. Currently, Italy trails three points behind group leaders Norway, who possess a superior goal difference.

During a press briefing, Gattuso remarked that Chiesa made the choice on his own. “I frequently communicate with him. We must honor the decisions and challenges that each player faces,” Gattuso stated. He emphasized that he understands and respects Chiesa's reasons: “What he shares with me cannot be disclosed.” This clearly indicated that Chiesa's decision was taken without dispute.

Suffering from injuries and scarce playing time since joining Liverpool from Juventus in the summer of 2024, Chiesa's form has been hindered. The 28-year-old has managed just two starts this season—both in the Carabao Cup—and has been minimally used in league matches. Speculations suggest that his lack of match fitness contributed significantly to his decision to skip national duty.

This is not the first occasion Chiesa has missed out on Gattuso's roster. In October, he was also left out for qualifiers against Estonia and Israel, which Gattuso described as a “mutual decision.” Chiesa had indicated he would prefer to return to international play only when feeling “fully fit.” Since 2023, recurring muscle issues and rehabilitation intervals have kept him from playing for Italy.

Following his transfer to Liverpool, Chiesa’s game time has been significantly limited. Last season, he was only seen in 14 matches across all tournaments, with minor injuries and lengthy recoveries disrupting his form. Initially, he was excluded from Liverpool's Champions League squad but was later included after teammate Giovanni Leoni faced a long-term injury. Liverpool's coach Arne Slot has publicly advocated for him, expressing that Chiesa “requires time to restore full rhythm and confidence.”

Italy's upcoming matches are pivotal as they face Moldova away and then Norway at home, potentially determining their qualification outcome. Norway, led by star striker Erling Haaland, currently holds a substantial 16-goal differential advantage, complicating Italy's chances of direct qualification. They must secure victories in both matches while hoping for a favorable outcome in Norway’s other encounter.

Coach Gattuso maintained a composed stance regarding Chiesa's withdrawal, redirecting focus to the players present. “We possess strong team ethics. The players available understand the importance of these matches,” he commented. “Federico is an exceptional talent and vital player, yet our group takes precedence.” Gattuso's remarks illustrated his awareness of the modern footballer’s mental fatigue, acknowledging how challenging it can be for players to juggle club and national responsibilities.

Chiesa’s decision to pass on the national call-up has elicited varied responses in Italy. While some fans express disappointment, feeling the team requires its best players for these critical fixtures, others empathize, highlighting Chiesa's tumultuous year both physically and mentally. Analysts and former players have also suggested prioritizing Chiesa’s long-term health over brief international appearances.

For the time being, Chiesa is anticipated to remain in England, concentrating on training with Liverpool during the international window. Reports indicate that he’s aiming to utilize this period to enhance his fitness and regain sharpness, gearing up for a return to first-team action. Liverpool’s medical staff is closely monitoring his health, striving to prevent any potential re-injury. If all progresses positively, Chiesa may be ready for the upcoming Premier League fixtures in December.

Chiesa’s choice underscores an increasing recognition among contemporary athletes concerning the significance of fitness management, mental well-being, and sustaining a prolonged career. While Italy's prospects are affected by his absence, Chiesa sees this as an opportunity to rebuild his strength and confidence. Coach Gattuso’s respectful approach signifies a more significant shift in football culture—where player welfare is becoming as crucial as team success. Fans of both Italy and Liverpool are undoubtedly hoping that this hiatus allows Chiesa to rediscover his prime form shortly.