Italy Squad Hit by Injuries: Gattuso Provides Updates on Scamacca, Bastoni, Tonali, Calafiori & Chiesa

Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso addressed the decision for Federico Chiesa to return to his club, Liverpool, instead of staying with the national squad at Coverciano for recovery, unlike other injured players. Gattuso also confirmed that Riccardo Calafiori experienced 'slight discomfort' during Arsenal’s recent match against Manchester City.

The Italian national team is currently preparing for their crucial World Cup play-off semi-final against Northern Ireland, scheduled for Thursday. During a press conference held on Monday, preceding Italy's initial training session, Gattuso provided a comprehensive update on the squad's fitness.

Several key players are facing fitness issues: Gianluca Scamacca, Alessandro Bastoni, and Gianluca Mancini are currently injured, while Sandro Tonali and Riccardo Calafiori are not yet fully fit.

Bastoni has been sidelined for Inter's last two matches, Scamacca missed Atalanta’s recent 1-0 victory over Verona, and Mancini was substituted during Roma’s win against Lecce.

Gattuso detailed the specifics, stating: "Scamacca is dealing with an adductor problem, and his condition, much like Bastoni's, will be assessed daily." He added, "Tonali is expected to train with a reduced workload today. Mancini is experiencing fatigue, though medical examinations revealed no significant issues. Calafiori reported slight discomfort yesterday, but we remain hopeful for his availability."

Regarding Chiesa, Gattuso stated: "He arrived yesterday with some physical issues, and we concluded there was no benefit in him remaining here." Notably, the Liverpool winger departed for his club on Monday morning, a divergence from other injured squad members, prompting Gattuso to elaborate on this decision.

Gattuso explained his reasoning: "Players are not all the same; their mental states vary." He continued, "Upon learning of his problems and doubts, I had to make a decision. He didn't feel ready, so he chose to go home, and I respected that. Relationships are crucial, beyond just the game. While I lack extensive medical expertise, I understand that you cannot push someone too hard. I don't force players. If someone wants to return home, it's correct to allow them to do so."

Italy's crucial World Cup play-off semi-final against Northern Ireland will take place in Bergamo on Thursday. Should they advance, they will face either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the final.