The blue of Italy has a familiar face back in the ranks. On Friday, March 20, 2026, Italy head coach Gennaro Gattuso announced his 28-man squad for the make-or-break World Cup playoffs, and the headline news is the long-awaited return of Federico Chiesa.
After nearly two years away from the national team—his last appearance coming in the Euro 2024 exit to Switzerland—the Liverpool winger has finally "accepted the call" to help the Azzurri avoid missing a third consecutive World Cup.
The "Gattuso" Gamble: Why Now?
Gattuso has been patient with Chiesa, who reportedly turned down previous call-ups this season to focus on his fitness at Anfield. However, with a semi-final againstNorthern Ireland looming on March 26, the manager decided he could wait no longer.
The Stagnation: Chiesa has struggled for consistent minutes in the Premier League, but Gattuso is banking on his "big game" pedigree. "We need his directness and his fearlessness," Gattuso noted during the press conference.
The "Vicario" Shock: While Chiesa returns, Tottenham’s Guglielmo Vicario has been sensationally dropped from the squad following a dip in form. Gattuso has opted for Elia Caprile and Marco Carnesecchi to provide backup for Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Youth Infusion: Gattuso continues his "Future Azzurri" project by handing a first senior call-up to 21-year-old Cagliari defender Marco Palestra.
Match Breakdown: The Road to 2026
Italy’s path to the World Cup is a two-step gauntlet. There is no room for error.
Tactical Spotlight: The 4-3-3 Blueprint
With Chiesa back, Gattuso is expected to revert to a more traditional 4-3-3, utilizing Chiesa’s pace on the break to complement the clinical finishing of Mateo Retegui. The midfield remains the engine room, with Newcastle's Sandro Tonali and Inter’s Nicolò Barella providing the grit and creativity Gattuso demands.