Strange decision. Federico Chiesa once again turns down Italy national team call-up

Gattuso is left frustrated by the 28-year-old winger's choice.

Details: With two crucial World Cup qualifying matches on the horizon—Italy set to face Moldova and Norway—head coach of the Azzurri, Gennaro Gattuso, has finalized his squad list. However, there is no place for Federico Chiesa.

The coach himself admitted that this was Chiesa's own decision. Gattuso did send the invitation for Chiesa to join the national team, but the player declined the call-up.

"I speak often with Chiesa, we simply need to respect the decisions each of us makes, and the issues we face. There’s nothing more to add, that’s the truth," Gattuso stated.

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Chiesa previously refused a call-up for the October fixtures, citing poor physical condition. The reason behind his latest rejection, however, remains a mystery.

Italy will meet Moldova on November 13, before facing a formidable Norway side led by star striker Erling Haaland on the 16th.

At the moment, Gattuso's squad sits second in the group, trailing the Norwegians by three points.

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