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Italy Coach Gattuso Calls Up Chiesa for Crucial Playoff

3/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Gennaro Gattuso, Italy coach, recalls Liverpool forward Federico Chiesa for World Cup play-off against Northern Ireland on March 26.
Chiesa, 28, last played for Italy during Euro 2024 and is expected to boost Italy's attack.
Gattuso named a 28-man squad, with Marco Palestra as first-time call-up and Pisilli and Scalvini returning.
Italy must win to avoid a third World Cup, then face Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina for a spot.

History

Historical Context

Italy's critical World Cup qualification match against Russia in 1997 secured their place in the 1998 tournament, highlighting the importance of strategic squad selections by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC). Today, Gennaro Gattuso's recall of Federico Chiesa reflects a similar urgency as Italy strives to avoid missing another World Cup, which could prompt significant changes in the national team's structure and strategy.

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Story summary

Gennaro Gattuso, Italy coach, recalls Liverpool forward Federico Chiesa for World Cup play-off against Northern Ireland on March 26.
Chiesa, 28, last played for Italy during Euro 2024 and is expected to boost Italy's attack.
Gattuso named a 28-man squad, with Marco Palestra as first-time call-up and Pisilli and Scalvini returning.
Italy must win to avoid a third World Cup, then face Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina for a spot.

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