Italy Names 28-Man Squad for 2026 World Cup Playoffs

Italy national team coach Gennaro Gattuso announced a 28-man squad on Friday for the upcoming 2026 World Cup playoffs, highlighting the return of Liverpool forward Federico Chiesa after nearly two years away from international duty. The Azzurri, aiming to end a streak of absences from soccer's premier tournament, will face North Macedonia in the semifinal on March 26 in Bergamo before a potential final against either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina five days later.

Chiesa, a key figure in Italy's 2021 European Championship victory, last represented his country during the Euro 2024 round of 16 loss to Switzerland, where he earned his 51st cap. The 28-year-old winger joined Liverpool from Juventus in August 2024 but has faced challenges adapting, managing just one Premier League start this season amid injuries and competition for places. Despite limited minutes, he has won over fans with his energetic style and commitment, often praised for his work rate during appearances.

Gattuso's selections blend experience with fresh talent as Italy seeks to avoid a third straight World Cup miss, following playoff defeats to Sweden in 2018 and North Macedonia in 2022. Cagliari defender Marco...