Federico Chiesa Snubs Italy Call-Up, Prioritizes Liverpool Recovery

November 11, 2025 – Liverpool winger Federico Chiesa has once again declined a call-up to the Italian national team, marking his fourth absence since Euro 2024, as confirmed by Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso. The decision, announced on November 10, comes ahead of World Cup qualifiers against Moldova and Norway, with Gattuso stating, “I speak often with Chiesa, we simply need to respect the decision each one of us makes and the issues we have. There’s nothing else for me to say, this is the truth.”

Chiesa, who joined Liverpool from Juventus last summer for £10 million, has struggled with fitness following a 2022 ACL injury, limiting him to 12 appearances this season, including two goals and three assists. His absence from the national team setup, which began after Italy’s Round of 16 exit at Euro 2024, reflects a focus on regaining peak form at Anfield. Liverpool manager Arne Slot has noted Chiesa’s ongoing recovery, with recent starts suggesting progress.

Gattuso’s squad, featuring 27 players including newcomer Elia Caprile, proceeds without the 27-year-old, who last played for Italy in July 2024. The move underscores a strategic shift, prioritizing club stability over international duty amid personal and physical challenges.