Chiesa Withdraws from Italy Squad Ahead of Crucial 2026 World Cup Play-Off

Liverpool forward Federico Chiesa has been forced to withdraw from the Italy national team squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying play-offs after medical assessments deemed him unfit to play.

The 28-year-old, who was making his first Azzurri call-up in nearly two years under coach Gennaro Gattuso, underwent checks upon arrival at the Coverciano training centre in Florence. The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) confirmed he was ruled unavailable for the upcoming matches and, in agreement with Liverpool, has already left the camp.

Bologna forward Nicolò Cambiaghi has been called up as his replacement, earning what will be his first senior international cap.

Chiesa’s latest setback adds to a frustrating season at Anfield, where recurring fitness issues—stemming from a serious ACL injury in 2022—have limited his appearances under manager Arne Slot. The winger has struggled for regular minutes, raising questions about his long-term role at Liverpool and fuelling speculation of a possible return to Serie A in the summer.

For Italy, the news is a significant blow as the Azzurri prepare for Thursday’s play-off semi-final against Northern Ireland in Bergamo, with a potential final against Wales or Bosnia-Herzegovina to follow. Missing out on the 2026 World Cup would mark a third consecutive absence for the four-time champions.

Fans and pundits have expressed sympathy for Chiesa’s ongoing “curse” of injuries, with many urging him to seek a fresh start to revive his career. Liverpool will now monitor his recovery closely ahead of their domestic fixtures, hoping the issue is not serious.