Chiesa entered the match as an 83rd-minute substitute during Liverpool’s 3-0 loss to Manchester City on Sunday. ..Continue Reading
The winger had limited time to influence the game, prompting frustration from Reds supporters who felt he should have been introduced earlier.
The 27-year-old has already featured more times in the Premier League this season than last—eight appearances compared to six—and has scored twice as many goals, though all his outings have come off the bench.
Despite limited minutes, Chiesa remains in contention for Italy, and Azzurri coach Gattuso attempted to include him in the squad for upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Moldova and Norway.
Italy currently sit in the play-off position in Group I, trailing Norway by three points, with a goal difference of +10 compared to Norway’s +26.
To qualify, Italy must win both matches and hope Norway fail to beat Estonia, who they host in Oslo on November 13.
During Monday’s press conference, AC Milan icon Gattuso confirmed Italy will face both fixtures without Chiesa.
“I often talk to him,” he told reporters (via Football Italia). “We have to respect the decisions and problems that each of us has. We know well what we tell each other, and I must respect what the player tells me. I can’t say anything else.”
When asked directly if Chiesa had opted out, he responded: “Yes. It’s already the fourth or fifth time that I’m explaining this.”
The reason for Chiesa’s decision—who last represented Italy in October 2024—remains uncertain.
He has dealt with injury setbacks in recent years, including missing 14 games for Liverpool last season due to a muscle problem, though he has remained fit this term.
His absence from international duty allows him more time to train with Liverpool as Arne Slot’s team aims to recover from a poor run of results.
The Reds have suffered five defeats in their last six league games, and six losses across their last nine matches in all competitions.
Despite limited playing time, Chiesa earned Liverpool’s Player of the Month award for September—a fan-voted honor.
He told Sky Sports last week: “Last year, I didn’t play that much, so having this support back from the fans was a good reason to try to give more, which I do on a daily basis, but having the support from the fans at your back helps you to give more.
“I think they like me because I do give my best. Every time I play, I try to give my best. I think I show it. I’m happy.”
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