Gattuso Details Italy Squad Injuries Ahead of World Cup Play-off

Gennaro Gattuso clarified the situation surrounding Federico Chiesa's early return to Liverpool, contrasting it with other injured Italian squad members who remained at Coverciano. He also mentioned that Riccardo Calafiori experienced "slight discomfort" during Arsenal's recent match against Manchester City.

Italy World Cup play-off: latest injury updates

Italy is currently preparing for their significant World Cup play-off semi-final match against Northern Ireland, scheduled for Thursday.

Gattuso addressed the media on Monday, preceding the team's initial training session.

Key players Gianluca Scamacca, Alessandro Bastoni, and Gianluca Mancini are sidelined with injuries, while Sandro Tonali and Calafiori are not at full fitness.

Bastoni has missed Inter's last two fixtures, Scamacca did not participate in Atalanta's recent 1-0 victory over Verona, and Mancini was substituted during Roma's win against Lecce.

"Scamacca is dealing with an adductor issue, and we are monitoring his condition daily, similar to Bastoni's situation," Gattuso stated during his press conference.

"Tonali is expected to have a light training session today. Mancini is experiencing fatigue, though medical examinations showed no specific problems. Calafiori reported slight discomfort yesterday, but we remain hopeful for his availability."

"Chiesa arrived yesterday but had several physical issues, leading us to conclude there was no benefit in him remaining with the squad."

Unlike his injured colleagues, the Liverpool winger departed for his club on Monday morning, prompting questions to Gattuso regarding this decision.

"Not all players are the same; their mental states differ," the coach explained.

"Upon learning of his problems and uncertainties, I had to make a choice. He didn't feel capable, so he opted to go home, and I respected that decision. Beyond the game itself, the relationships within the team are vital. While I'm not a medical expert, I've learned that it's unproductive to insist too much. I don't force players. If someone wishes to return home, it's appropriate to allow them to do so."

Italy will face Northern Ireland in Bergamo for their World Cup play-off semi-final on Thursday. Should they advance to the final, their opponent will be either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina.