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Italy legend Gianluigi Buffon said that the Azzurri are waiting on Federico Chiesa's return to the international fold after failing to secure automatic qualification for next summer's World Cup.
Chiesa has not played for Italy since Euro 2024, with the start of his international absence coinciding with his move to Liverpool last summer. It is well documented that Chiesa is yet to establish himself at Liverpool, despite some encouraging performances for the Reds at the start of this season.
Italy boss Gennaro Gattuso has been keen to include Chiesa in his recent squads, only for the winger to reject the call-ups.
Buffon, Italy's delegation chief, said that the team is waiting on Chiesa.
“We have to bring back all the best players. If someone stands out, there’s no preclusion of any kind, also because we need them,” said the ex-goalkeeper.
“We’re waiting for Chiesa; there are very few like him in Europe, but Rino hasn’t left anyone at home who deserves to be here. The group matters.”
Gattuso explained in October that Chiesa had rejected the chance to return to the international fold because he did not feel match-fit enough to make an impact for his country.
The Italy boss was also asked about Chiesa after this week's World Cup playoff draw, which pitted the Italians against Northern Ireland.
After being asked whether Chiesa could hold the key to breaking down Northern Ireland, Gattuso snapped back: “You always ask the same questions. I call Chiesa. I call him before every international break.
“The problem isn’t Gattuso or his coaching staff. It’s his (Chiesa's) problem. Not ours. You know that very well.
"You always ask me the same questions, and I keep giving you the same answer."
Chiesa has been one of Liverpool's most productive attackers across the first few games of the season, registering two goals and three assists despite playing for just 344 minutes in all competitions.
The 28-year-old has averaged a direct goal contribution approximately once every 40 minutes in the Premier League this term, but, puzzlingly, that has not been enough to earn him a top-flight start.
Chiesa is contracted to Liverpool until the summer of 2028, but it will be interesting to see what his future holds in the January transfer window if his game time doesn't pick up, as he will surely want to feel ready to contribute for Italy in the new year.
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