Federico Chiesa Declines Italy Call-Up For Qualifiers

Liverpool forward Federico Chiesa has turned down a call-up to the Italian national team for their November World Cup qualifying matches, head coach Gennaro Gattuso confirmed on Monday. Italy are set to play two crucial matches — one away against Moldova and another at home against Norway — as they conclude their group qualification campaign. The Azzurri are currently three points behind group leaders Norway, who also have a much better goal difference.

Speaking at a press conference, Gattuso shared that Chiesa personally declined the invitation to join the squad for the upcoming games. “I often talk to him. We have to respect the decisions and problems that each of us has,” Gattuso said. The coach added, “We know well what we tell each other, and I must respect what the player tells me. I can’t say anything else.” His statement made it clear that the decision came from Chiesa himself and that it was accepted without conflict.

Chiesa, who joined Liverpool from Juventus in the summer of 2024, has faced a challenging time in England. Injuries and limited playing opportunities have made it hard for him to establish a regular place in Arne Slot’s team. The 28-year-old has made only two starts this season, both in the Carabao Cup, and has been used sparingly in league games. His lack of match fitness and rhythm are believed to be major reasons behind his decision to skip international duty.

This is not the first time Chiesa has been left out of Gattuso’s plans. In October, he was also omitted from Italy’s squad for the qualifiers against Estonia and Israel. At that time, Gattuso explained that it was a “joint decision” between him and the player. Chiesa reportedly expressed his desire to return to international football only when he felt “100 percent ready.” The forward has not played for Italy since 2023, missing several matches due to recurring muscle problems and rehabilitation periods.

Since his move to Liverpool, Chiesa’s time on the pitch has been limited. Last season, he featured in only 14 matches across all competitions. His form was disrupted by minor injuries and long recovery spells. At the start of this campaign, he was not even included in Liverpool’s initial Champions League squad. However, after teammate Giovanni Leoni suffered a long-term injury, Chiesa was later added to the European roster. Despite these challenges, Liverpool coach Arne Slot has publicly supported him, stating that Chiesa “needs time to regain full rhythm and confidence.”

For Italy, the upcoming matches are crucial. They will face Moldova away before returning home to meet Norway in what could be the deciding fixture for qualification. Norway, led by star striker Erling Haaland, currently enjoy a 16-goal advantage in goal difference, making Italy’s path to direct qualification extremely tough. Italy must win both matches and hope for a favorable result in Norway’s other fixture to stand a chance.

Coach Gattuso remained calm about Chiesa’s absence, focusing instead on the players who are available. “We have a strong team spirit. The players who are here know the importance of these matches,” he said. “Of course, Federico is a great talent and an important player, but the group comes first.” Gattuso’s comments reflected his understanding of player fatigue and mental strain, acknowledging that modern footballers often struggle to balance club and country commitments.

The decision by Chiesa to decline the national call-up has sparked mixed reactions in Italy. Some fans have expressed disappointment, believing that Italy needs its best players for such important fixtures. Others, however, have shown empathy, pointing out that the winger has endured a difficult year physically and mentally. Former players and analysts have also suggested that Chiesa’s long-term well-being should take priority over short-term appearances.

For now, Chiesa is expected to stay in England and focus on training with Liverpool during the international break. Reports suggest that the player wants to use the time to regain fitness and work on his sharpness before rejoining regular first-team action. Liverpool’s medical team continues to monitor his condition, aiming to prevent any recurrence of his previous injuries. If all goes well, Chiesa could be back in contention for Liverpool’s upcoming Premier League matches in December.

Federico Chiesa’s decision highlights the growing awareness among modern footballers about managing fitness, mental health, and career longevity. For Italy, his absence is undoubtedly a setback, but for Chiesa, it is an opportunity to rebuild strength and confidence. Coach Gattuso’s respectful stance reflects a broader shift in football culture — one where player welfare is valued as much as team success. Fans of both Italy and Liverpool will be hoping that this short break helps the winger rediscover his best form soon.