Why Gattuso's Call-Up of Chiesa for Italy is the Right Move
Exploring the controversial decision to include Federico Chiesa in the Italian national team squad for the crucial upcoming matches, despite his past refusals and critics' opinions. Is Gattuso's choice to reintegrate the Liverpool striker a strategic move to bolster the Azzurri's chances at the World Cup?
The Liverpool striker hasn't played for Italy since Euro 2024; his call-up is a real asset for Gattuso.Back in the national team, 19 months on. Federico Chiesa is back in the Azzurri shirt; Gattuso has decided to include him in the 28-man squad for the match against Northern Ireland, scheduled for Thursday in Bergamo, in what is expected to be the first of two warm-up matches ahead of the World Cup in Mexico, the United States and Canada. The Liverpool forward is part of the squad, unlike Bernardeschi and Zaniolo who, despite their good seasons at Bologna and Udinese, have been left out and will be watching on TV to cheer on the team. The manager’s decision is far from a foregone conclusion; in some ways, it is surprising, especially after what happened last autumn. To get a clearer picture of the situation, we need to rewind to October, when Chiesa received the call-up from Italy and chose not to respond. The reason? He didn’t feel up to it, physically or mentally. A justification he also used in November, following a discussion with Gattuso, who wanted him available for the matches against Moldova and Norway.A stance for which Chiesa has come in for criticism, but one widely shared by the manager: "The Chiesa situation is simple: I talk a lot with my players, I put a lot of pressure on them. I have a long chat with Fede every week and he knows exactly what I think of him, but ultimately you have to respect what a player tells you. He doesn’t feel 100% and wants to be 100% fit.” Was Gattuso right to call him up for, at best, two do-or-die matches? Is it right to call up a player who has twice turned down the national team shirt for two matches that are crucial for the future of Italian football?"No" is Julio Velasco’s answer. According to the coach of the Italian national volleyball team, gold medallists at the Paris Olympics, there is no place for those who turn down a call-up: "Anyone who has said no to the national team in the past is out of the picture now too. You can’t decide to take care of yourself and then come back. We decide that together with the doctors." Obviously, he isn’t referring to Federico Chiesa, but his words fit the bill perfectly. Following his refusals in October and November, many are against the former Juventus and Fiorentina player wearing the Azzurri shirt. What’s more, after a season in which he played a bit-part role at Liverpool: 31 matches, 3 goals and 3 assists in just over 600 minutes in total, averaging 21 minutes per game. Selecting Chiesa for the national team is an unpopular choice, one for which Gattuso is ready to defend. When it comes to taking on responsibility, Rino has never shied away; if he has chosen to call him up, it is because he is convinced he can add value, not because of a lack of alternatives. And there are reasons to believe him. With 51 caps, Liverpool’s current number 14 – who hasn’t worn the Azzurri shirt since the round of 16 at Euro 2024 (a defeat against Switzerland) – is the striker with the most appearances in the squad, ahead of Raspadori (45), Retegui (26), Kean (24), Scamacca (22) and Pio Esposito (5). Within this group, he is the third-most capped player for the national team, behind only Donnarumma (79) and Barella (68). An experienced player who understands the importance of do-or-die matches and is aware of just how delicate the situation is. A striker with qualities that no one else in the squad possesses, who has improved whilst on Merseyside, particularly mentally. Someone who, coming off the bench, can truly make an impact through his intensity and quality. In this Italy side, for now, he may not be a first-choice starter, but he can be a trump card.Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting
Chiesa's Return and the Controversy Surrounding it
Federico Chiesa's return to the Azzurri squad after missing out on previous call-ups due to physical and mental concerns has sparked debate among fans and pundits. Gattuso's decision to include him, despite his prior refusals, raises questions about loyalty and the importance of players being fully committed to the national team.
Velasco's Critique and Gattuso's Defense
Julio Velasco's strong stance against players who reject national team call-ups sets a rigid standard. However, Gattuso's belief in Chiesa's potential contribution and value to the squad highlights different perspectives on player management and team selection. The manager's willingness to stand by his choice demonstrates his confidence in Chiesa's abilities.
Chiesa's Role and Impact on the Squad
Despite criticisms and doubts surrounding his recent form and limited playing time at Liverpool, Chiesa brings experience, determination, and unique qualities to the Italian national team. His potential as a game-changer and impact player, especially in high-stake scenarios, could prove vital in Italy's quest for success at the upcoming World Cup.
Looking Ahead to the World Cup
As Gattuso prepares his squad for the challenges of the World Cup in Mexico, the inclusion of Chiesa symbolizes a calculated risk aimed at strengthening Italy's attacking options. With his track record and international experience, Chiesa has the opportunity to prove his worth and silence his critics by making a significant contribution on the global stage.
Final Thoughts
The decision to call up Chiesa for the Italian national team embodies the complexities of player selection and team dynamics. While critics question the wisdom of such a move, Gattuso's conviction in the striker's abilities underscores the manager's strategic vision and belief in leveraging Chiesa's skills to enhance Italy's prospects at the World Cup.
