Federico Chiesa continues to decline call-ups for the Italian national team, leaving manager Gennaro Gattuso disappointed. Chiesa’s situation at Liverpool and his uncertain international future remain under scrutiny.
Liverpool forward Federico Chiesa has once again declined an invitation to join the Italian national squad for the November international window, despite repeated attempts by manager Gennaro Gattuso to bring him back into the team.
According to a report from Anfield Index, Italy is facing selection turmoil as Liverpool star Federico Chiesa has declined the national team’s latest call-up ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Italy manager Gennaro Gattuso confirmed his disappointment after the 28-year-old forward turned down the invitation for the upcoming qualifiers against Moldova and Norway.
This marks an ongoing absence for Chiesa, who has not featured for the Azzurri since their 2-0 defeat to Switzerland at the European Championships, nearly 18 months ago.
From a Liverpool perspective, the Italian forward, who is still seeking to find rhythm at club level, has featured more under Arne Slot this season compared to his debut campaign, yet he has only accumulated 344 minutes of action across all competitions, including just two starts in the Carabao Cup.
His limited playing time has fueled transfer speculation in Italy, with reports suggesting Napoli are monitoring his situation for a potential move back to Serie A.
Gattuso stressed that he must respect the player’s personal decision, confirming that their dialogue remains regular.
He said, via Mail Sport: “I often talk to him. We have to respect the decisions and problems that each of us has. We know well what we tell each other, and I must respect what the player tells me. I can’t say anything else.”
When further pressed on the situation, the manager added: “Yes, it’s already the fourth or fifth time that I’m explaining this.”
With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, Gattuso will be hoping for a resolution that brings one of Italy’s most talented forwards back into contention.