Federico Chiesa in Line for Italy Recall Under Gattuso

Chiesa’s resurgence catching attention

Federico Chiesa may be on the brink of an international return, with Italy manager Gennaro Gattuso considering recalling the Liverpool forward for this month’s World Cup qualifiers. Despite a challenging spell since moving to Anfield in 2024, the 27-year-old is beginning to show glimpses of the quality that once made him the face of Italian football.

Chiesa’s time at Liverpool has been punctuated by frustration. Limited opportunities, combined with the aftermath of recurring injuries, have left him struggling for rhythm. Yet, when he has featured, his efficiency has been hard to ignore. This season, he holds the best minutes-per-goal ratio in the Premier League among players to have played more than an hour of football.

Gattuso monitoring closely

Reports from Italy suggest that Gattuso has been encouraged by Chiesa’s form in recent weeks and has been monitoring his progress with particular interest. The Italy head coach, alongside team coordinator Gianluigi Buffon, is said to be impressed not only with Chiesa’s contribution but also his resilience in navigating a difficult period at club level.

The forward was omitted from Liverpool’s midweek Champions League trip to Galatasaray, officially due to a minor fitness concern. Manager Arne Slot has insisted it was precautionary, with expectations that Chiesa will be available for the upcoming league clash against Chelsea. That reassurance will be welcomed by Italy, who face Estonia and Israel in crucial fixtures that could define their qualification campaign.

Italy’s qualification challenge

Italy remain under pressure to secure their place at the 2026 World Cup in North America. Two consecutive failures to reach the tournament still cast a shadow, and with only group winners progressing automatically, Gattuso’s side need maximum points in the coming matches. Currently trailing Norway by six points but with a game in hand, the Azzurri cannot afford further slip-ups.

Chiesa’s international pedigree could prove valuable. Since his debut in 2018, he has amassed 51 caps and seven goals. Once hailed as the golden boy of the national team, his potential recall signals Gattuso’s intent to rely on experience as well as form in the decisive months ahead.

Future under Gattuso

For Chiesa, this could be a pivotal moment. A return to the Italy set-up would not only bolster his confidence but also provide him with the platform to re-establish himself at the highest level. Gattuso’s backing may also serve as a reminder to Liverpool of his worth, especially at a time when competition for attacking positions is fierce.

Italy will confirm their squad imminently, with Chiesa’s inclusion now a real possibility. Should Gattuso place his trust in him, it would mark a significant step towards reigniting a career that has too often been stalled by circumstance.