Gattuso gives Chiesa space as Italy return hindered by Liverpool pressure | OneFootball

Federico Chiesa’s international comeback remains on hold as the Italy winger continues to struggle mentally after his serious knee injury in 2022.

The former Juventus and Fiorentina star has told national team coach Gennaro Gattuso twice, in September and October, that he does not yet feel ready to return to the Azzurri setup, and the coach has chosen to respect his decision.

UDINE, ITALY – OCTOBER 14: Gennaro Gattuso, Head Coach of Italy, looks on prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Israel at Stadio Friuli on October 14, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

However, with the Euro 2026 play-offs approaching, time is running out.

Chiesa continues to put off Italy amid Liverpool pressure

Chiesa’s hesitation risks costing him a key role in Italy’s plans, despite his natural place among the squad’s potential starters.

La Repubblica suggest his doubts are not only physical but also psychological, tied to the pressure of his new surroundings at Liverpool.

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – AUGUST 25: Federico Chiesa of Liverpool during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Liverpool at St James’ Park on August 25, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

Gattuso is said to understand Chiesa’s fragile mindset, acknowledging that moving to a club with fierce competition, from Mohamed Salah, Alexander Isak, Hugo Ekitiké, Cody Gakpo, Dominik Szoboszlai and Florian Wirtz, has weighed heavily on the Italian.