Italy head coach Gennaro Gattuso has put an end to the ongoing debate surrounding Federico Chiesa's absence from the national team, stressing that it is entirely the player's personal choice and not a decision imposed by the coaching staff. Softfootball reported that the Italian coach had earlier addressed the issue during international duty, but persistent questioning has prompted him to reiterate his response again.
With the Azzurri gearing up for a high-stakes World Cup play-off semi-final against Northern Ireland on March 26, 2026, Gattuso revealed he has maintained steady, respectful communication with the Liverpool winger ahead of every international window.
According to the coach, as revealed by Fabrizio Romano via his official X account, Chiesa has consistently declined recent call-ups, explaining that he doesn't feel fully ready, either physically or mentally, to return to the rhythm of international football. It's a stance Gattuso says he must respect, even though he'd prefer to have the 28-year-old available.