Liverpool’s Federico Chiesa leaves Italy camp after medical tests confirm fitness concern

Liverpool forward Federico Chiesa has left the Italy national team camp ahead of Thursday’s World Cup play-offs with Northern Ireland.

Chiesa was deemed unfit following medical tests carried out at the Federal Technical Centre and has left the camp.

Bologna forward Nicolo Cambiaghi has been called up as his replacement. The 25-year-old has made just one appearance for the four-time World Cup winners.

Chiesa has not featured for the Azzurri since the round of 16 loss to Switzerland in the 2024 European Championship.

The former Juventus winger starred in Italy’s 2020 European Championship, scoring two goals and earning a place in the Team of the Tournament.

Chiesa has made 51 appearances for Italy, scoring seven goals and providing eight assists.

The versatile forward has struggled with various injuries, limiting his playing time at the club and national team levels.

Although Chiesa’s fitness levels have improved this season, he has yet to hit the heights that made him one of the most exciting wingers in Europe.

The 28-year-old has featured in 32 games across all competitions for Liverpool, registering just six goal involvements.

Manager Arne Slot has preferred Mohamed Salah, Jeremie Frimpong and Rio Ngumoha as the right winger over him.

Chiesa’s withdrawal leaves coach Gennaro Gattuso with Napoli’s Matteo Politano as the only experienced winger in his squad ahead of the upcoming games.

Italy are hoping to avoid missing a third consecutive World Cup. They have to beat Northern Ireland, then either Wales or Bosnia & Herzegovina to do so.