The ‘play-off strategy’ is proving to be a difficult task for Italy. Injuries to Verratti, Di Lorenzo, Leoni, Rovella and Zaccagni made it difficult for Gennaro Gattuso to compile his list. But Italy were dealt another blow before they faced Northern Ireland in the first play-off game (and then faced either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the final).
Federico Chiesa, who returned to the list after an absence of (almost) two years, is sidelined due to injury. In fact, the Liverpool winger has already left Coverciano’s training camp.
“Federico Chiesa was examined upon his arrival at the Federal Technical Center and was declared unable to play in the next two matches and has left the national team’s training camp in agreement with the club,” a statement from Nazionale said.
He will be replaced by Nicole Cambiaghi. The Bologna winger, who has four goals and six assists this season, has only played one game for Italy. He made his debut in the 90th minute against Israel (3-0) on October 14, 2025, replacing Retegui.
