Liverpool forward Federico Chiesa, who recently received his first call-up to the Italian national team under manager Gennaro Gattuso, has been forced to withdraw. He was initially selected for crucial World Cup European play-off matches: against Northern Ireland on March 26, and potentially against Wales or Bosnia-Herzegovina on March 31, with a coveted spot in the World Cup at stake.
However, on Monday morning, both Liverpool FC and the Italian Football Federation confirmed that Chiesa would remain in England due to an injury. A statement from Federcalcio read: “Federico Chiesa was evaluated upon his arrival at the federal technical center and deemed unavailable for the upcoming two matches. In agreement with his club, he has left the squad. Bologna winger Nicolò Cambiaghi has been called up as his replacement.”
Chiesa joined Liverpool from Juventus in 2024. Since his arrival, recurring injuries have limited him to just 46 appearances for the English side, with only nine starts. His absence further extends Liverpool’s growing injury list, which already includes key players such as Alexander Isak, Conor Bradley, and Wataru Endo.
This injury also deals a significant blow to Chiesa’s World Cup aspirations. He was part of the Italy squad that famously won UEFA Euro 2020 (held in 2021). Of course, his ultimate World Cup participation hinges on Italy successfully navigating these European play-offs, which commence this week.