The final international window before the end of the 2025-26 club season is here. For most of the globe's traditional powerhouses, this month is about finetuning ahead of the World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada. But not every team has the luxury of such forward planning, with several big-hitters still yet to punch their ticket to the tournament.
The World Cup serves as a barometer of Italy’s financial health: let’s look at the potential revenue and losses depending on whether or not they qualify for the tournament
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".
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