Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori has opened up on the intense man-management style of Italy head coach Gennaro Gattuso, jokingly claiming the Azzurri boss has called him more frequently than his own mother in recent months. The versatile 23-year-old is preparing for a crucial World Cup play-off against Northern Ireland as Italy look to avoid missing out on a third consecutive tournament.
Italy is once again fearing for its World Cup hopes; the pressure on the four-time world champions is immense ahead of the decisive matches for one of the last places.
Federico Chiesa, who has endured a tough couple of years at Liverpool, is considered to be a “fragile guy” and has been told that a return to his native Italy could be the best option for all concerned. Struggles for fitness and regular game time continue to plague the Italian winger in England, with Massimino Ambrosini telling GOAL why a change of scenery in 2026 would make a lot of sense.
Italy head coach Gennaro Gattuso has confirmed that Liverpool winger Federico Chiesa was sent home ahead of a crucial World Cup play-off tie against Northern Ireland. The manager says the forward had some "minor issues" and "wasn't up to it".
Italy have confirmed Liverpool winger Federico Chiesa has been sent back to the Premier League giants due to injury and will not feature in their vital 2026 World Cup play-offs. However, striker Hugo Ekitike has linked up with the France squad despite being substituted early on during the Reds' 2-1 defeat to Brighton on Saturday.
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Italy
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