Tonali’s goal and assist for Italy against Northern Ireland allowed the Azzurri to secure a 2-0 victory on Thursday and qualify for the World Cup play-off Final.
Ex-Italy and Juventus midfielder Tacchinardi, a Bianconeri fan, reacted to Tonali’s performance on social media, asking his friend and Juventus director Chiellini to sign the Newcastle star this summer.
TURIN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 16: General view inside the stadium prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Juventus and Borussia Dortmund at Juventus Stadium on September 16, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
“Super Chiellini, bring him to Turin, a proper player,” Tacchinardi wrote in an Instagram story published the day after the game.
BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 26: Sandro Tonali of Italy scores his team’s first goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match between Italy and Northern Ireland at Stadio di Bergamo on March 26, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Tonali has scored three goals and provided seven assists in 47 appearances across all competitions with Newcastle this season.
The 25-year-old has also scored four goals in 31 appearances with the Italy national team.
Picture: Tacchinardi asks Chiellini to sign Tonali
Alessio Tacchinardi’s Instagram story on March 27, 2026.
Italy progressed to the World Cup play-off Final with a 2-0 win over Northern Ireland, but fans on social media still have mixed feelings regarding the Azzurri’s performance on Thursday.
Tonali and Kean scored in the second half after Italy had failed to pose much of a threat to the Northern Ireland defence in the opening 45 minutes.
As coach Gennaro Gattuso admitted at full-time, the Azzurri were too predictable and “slow” in the first half, and the Nazionale will have to assess this in the coming days as they prepare for the final against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The celebrations by Federico Dimarco and other Italian players following Bosnia’s win over Wales also drew the fans’ attention, who now hope the video doesn’t come back to haunt the national team in a few days.
Blown out of proportion always. The mistake is RAI showing these images, NOT the player’s holding a personal preference for whatever their reasons are
IF Northern Ireland had beaten Italy do you honestly think it would have been any different from your own players towards them? https://t.co/7By11nvKLx
Reckon he’s injured but miraculously recovers in time for italy’s game against Northern Ireland yeahhh he really doesn’t want to play for yous #NUFChttps://t.co/fFD4Rb78fy
Italy will have some atmosphere to compete against if we can take anything from those outstanding travelling Bosnia fans. They showed their experience and quality in that second half against Northern Ireland. Fancy them to squeeze through on Tuesday #Azzurri
It was a natural reaction that anyone would have done. Bosnia would have been buying drinks for everyone if they drew N. Ireland. Italian media should’ve been more responsible, and not making Italy out to be a villain, and give Bosnia any form of motivation. Shame on them.
Northern Ireland played well against the @Azzurri yesterday. Despite their loss let’s remember NI is a small country & the fact they were competing to qualify for World Cup vs the Italians is an accomplishment
— Sal Albanese (@salalbanesenyc.bsky.social) (@AlbaneseNYC) March 27, 2026
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The lack of option between the lines for Italy is embarrassing.
Serie A tickets are in demand as the races for the title, Champions League and survival resume after the international break.
The weekend will begin with Sassuolo-Cagliari on Saturday, April 4 at 15:00 CET and immediately after, at 18:00 CET, Hellas Verona will host Fiorentina at the Stadio Bentegodi in a massive game in the race for survival.
The Tuscans are just one point above the relegation zone, while Verona sit 19th, level on 18 points with last-placed Pisa and are better positioned just because of goal difference.
The other teams currently involved in the race for survival are Cremonese, who will host Bologna on Easter Day, Sunday, April 5, at 15:00 CET, and Lecce, who will play at home against Atalanta the following day.
The big games of Serie A Round 31 are surely Inter-Roma on April 5 and Napoli-Milan on Monday, April 6.
Table leaders Inter are winless in the last three league games, collecting just two points in the process, while Roma sit 6th and are chasing a Champions League spot, three points behind fourth-placed Como.
Roma have won just two of the last five Serie A matches, drawing once and losing twice.
Napoli and Milan will meet at the Stadio Maradona in an encounter that will likely determine which team will go all the way to challenge Inter for the Scudetto.
NAPLES, ITALY – MARCH 06: Alisson Santos of SSC Napoli celebrates after scoring his side first goal during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Torino FC at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on March 06, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Napoli come to this game with four consecutive victories, while Milan have won three of the last five, losing twice.
Napoli will probably have to cope without Romelu Lukaku, who has remained in Belgium without the club’s consent during the international break.
The Belgian striker will be fined, but according to Sky Sport Italia, the Partenopei have also decided to freeze him out of the team if he doesn’t return to Naples by next Tuesday.
Another team fighting for a Champions League spot is Juventus, who are level on 54 points with Roma and three points behind Como.
The Bianconeri will host Genoa on Monday, April 6 at 18:00 CET and will look to bounce back from a disappointing home draw against Sassuolo before the break.
“We are distraught with disappointment for the result, but smile anyway,” Spalletti said after a 1-1 stalemate at the Allianz Stadium.
“We create so many situations where we could’ve won it, but we have to accept the result. There were some good things in the second half, even if we moved the ball a bit too slowly.”
Calhanoglu and Vincenzo Montella’s Turkiye beat Romania 1-0 on Thursday to qualify for the World Cup play-off Final against Kosovo.
Calhanoglu was subbed off in the dying minutes due to a suspected calf injury, but according to recent reports in Italy, the Turkish star only had a cramp and should be available for Tuesday’s Final.
Calhanoglu didn’t even mention his latest injury problem in a post-match interview with Sky Sport Italia.
The Inter star, however, revealed that Chivu contacted him right after the match to receive a fitness update.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Cristian Chivu head coach of FC Internazionale during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“He was looking at my physical condition because I had come back from an injury after one and a half months,” Calhanoglu said.
“He already texted me now, asking how I am. For me, Mr Chivu is special. I’m always thankful to him at Inter because they gave me time and preparation to be fit for this game, so I’m always thankful to my coach, Chivu.”
MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 06: Hakan Calhanoglu of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s third goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Como 1907 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on December 06, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Calhanoglu has been on and off the pitch for Inter in 2026 due to physical issues.
Since January, he has made five Serie A appearances and missed six league games due to injuries.
After the break, Inter will host Roma at the Stadio Meazza on April 5.
Zenica’s Bilino Polje Stadium will host the World Cup play-off Final between Italy and Bosnia and Herzegovina on Tuesday, March 31.
It’s an away fixture for the Azzurri, as determined by a draw that took place this past December.
Although the stadium picked by the Bosnian football federation only has 15,600 seats, the Azzurri must surely be prepared for a hostile welcome.
The Bosnian FA announced on X on Friday that tickets for the Final against Italy are sold out.
Enthusiasm in the country is running high as Bosnia and Herzegovina secured a spot in the Final after a penalty shootout victory over Wales on Thursday.
CARDIFF, WALES – MARCH 26: Edin Dzeko of Bosnia and Herzegovina celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammates during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-off match between Wales and Bosnia and Herzegovina at Cardiff City Stadium on March 26, 2026 in Cardiff, Wales. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images)
Veteran Edin Dzeko, a former Fiorentina, Roma and Inter star, scored a late equaliser last night, forcing the game to extra time and then penalties.
Just a few hours later, the federation confirmed that tickets for the final against Italy are no longer available.
ZENICA, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – OCTOBER 11: General view of the of a stadium Bilino Polje prior to the UEFA Nations League 2024/25 League A Group A3 match between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Germany at on October 11, 2024 in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images)
Bosnia and Herzegovina have only played once in the World Cup, in 2014, which is also the last time Italy played in the competition, having failed to qualify in 2018 and 2022.
Italy are preparing for the World Cup play-off Final to be played away in Bosnia and Herzegovina on Tuesday, March 31.
The Azzurri progressed to the Final by beating Northern Ireland 2-0 in Bergamo on Thursday, while Bosnia and Herzegovina secured a victory on penalties away at Wales.
Azzurri coach Gennaro Gattuso has a few days to work with the team, but Italian media are already suggesting that the CT could make a couple of line-up changes for the Final.
UDINE, ITALY – OCTOBER 14: Gennaro Gattuso, Head Coach of Italy, looks on prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Israel at Stadio Friuli on October 14, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
As highlighted by Calciomercato.com, Alessandro Bastoni’s fitness must be assessed as the Inter star returned to action against Northern Ireland after spending the previous two weeks on the sidelines and was subbed off around minute 60 after receiving a yellow card.
If Bastoni is fit to start, he’ll surely retain his starting spot; otherwise, Federico Gatti seems favourite over Alessandro Buongiorno and Giorgio Scalvini to join Gianluca Mancini and Riccardo Calafiori in a three-man defence.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 14: Francesco Pio Esposito of Inter warms up prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Atalanta BC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 14, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Even Italy and Inter legend Beppe Bergomi argued last night that Pio Esposito, scorer of three goals in six Italy appearances, should be considered for a starting spot in the Final.
Tuttosport reports that Juventus are preparing an offer to sign Franck Kessié as a free agent, as the ex-Milan and Atalanta star has put contract talks with Al Ahli on hold.
Juventus are expected to make an attempt to sign ex-Milan and Atalanta star Kessié as a free agent.
The midfielder’s contract with Al Ahli expires at the end of the season, and according to Tuttosport, the 29-year-old has ignored a two-year extension offer from the Saudi Pro League club.
The Turin-based paper claims that Kessié is tempted to return to Serie A in the summer, even if leaving the Saudi Pro League will necessarily mean a lower salary from 2062-27.
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 07: A detailed view of the corner flag inside the Juventus Stadium prior to the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Pisa SC at Juventus Stadium on March 07, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Giuseppe Cottini/Getty Images)
According to the report, Juventus are ready to offer Kessié a two-year contract worth €5m per season. The ex-Milan star currently earns €14m at Al Ahli.
Tuttosport mentions other Serie A clubs who might be potentially interested in the Ivory Coast international.
JEDDAH, SAUDI ARABIA – APRIL 29: Franck Kessié of Al-Ahli Saudi reacts during the AFC Champions League Elite Semi Final between Al Hilal and Al Ahli at King Abdullah Sports City Hall Stadium on April 29, 2025 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
Among them are Roma, coached by Gian Piero Gasperini, who previously worked with Kessié at Atalanta and Inter, who are looking for a midfielder with Kessié’s characteristics for next season.
Kessié is only one of the free agents targeted by Juventus for 2026-27, as the Bianconeri have already begun preliminary talks with Bernardo Silva and Leo Goretzka as well.
Sky Sport Italia claims that Romelu Lukaku will be frozen out of the Napoli squad if he doesn’t return to the club’s training centre before next Tuesday, but according to Il Mattino, the striker is planning to remain in Belgium for at least another week.
Napoli star Lukaku refused to resume training with his club on Thursday, remaining in Belgium to continue his recovery and regain full fitness for the final part of the season.
According to Il Mattino, Belgian doctors have informed Lukaku that he’s nowhere near the fitness level required for the 2026 World Cup, so he decided to remain in Antwerp to continue individual training.
The Naples-based paper reports that Lukaku is aware that Rasmus Hojlund has become Napoli’s primary attacking option and fears he won’t improve his shape by working with the Partenopei during the break.
NAPLES, ITALY – FEBRUARY 10: Romelu Lukaku of SSC Napoli reacts after missing a penalty in the penalty shootout during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
According to Il Mattino, Lukaku has even informed Napoli that he’d need from seven to ten days of individual work before returning to the club.
epa12016519 Napoli’s Romelu Lukaku warms up ahead of the Italian Serie A soccer match between Bologna FC and SSC Napoli, in Bologna, Italy, 07 April 2025. EPA-EFE/SERENA CAMPANINI
Sky Sport, however, says Napoli are unwilling to wait this much, so they will surely fine their striker and will even freeze him out of the team if he fails to return before next Tuesday.
Lukaku suffered a severe muscle injury in August and only returned to action in recent weeks. He has barely played 40 minutes in Serie A since his return, scoring one goal in seven appearances across all competitions.
France beat Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil 2-1 in an international friendly last night, but Juventus star Gleison Bremer scored his first goal for the Seleçao.
Juventus defender Bremer scored his first goal for the Brazil national team last night, in his side’s 2-1 loss against France.
Les Blues took the lead at minute 32 with Kylian Mbappé, and Hugo Ekitike doubled their advantage in the 65th minute.
FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS – MARCH 26: Bremer of Brazil runs with the ball against Kylian Mbappé of France during the international friendly match between Brazil and France at Gillette Stadium on March 26, 2026 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images)
Bremer found the net at minute 78 from a free-kick routine, beating Milan star Mike Maignan with a right-footed volley.
Defenders Sead Kolasinac and Tarik Muharemovic are the only Serie A players in the Bosnia and Herzegovina squad, which, however, is led by ex-Inter, Fiorentina and Roma star Edin Dzeko.
Dzeko himself played a key role in Bosnia’s win, scoring a late equaliser in the 86th minute that sent the game to extra time and then penalties.
A former Serie A star, 40-year-old Dzeko is Bosnia’s captain and leader with 73 goals in 147 matches at an international level.
He spent the first part of the season at Fiorentina, but left the Franchi in the January window to join Schalke 04, where he has netted six times in eight appearances in the 2. Bundesliga.
Dzeko, a former Premier League winner with Manchester City, has scored 107 goals in 279 Serie A matches, playing for Inter, Fiorentina and Roma.
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: Sead Kolasinac of Atalanta celebrates victory following the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Atalanta BC and Borussia Dortmund at Stadio di Bergamo on February 25, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Two other familiar faces in the Bosnia squad are Kolasinac (Atalanta) and Muharemovic (Sassuolo), two regular starters in the backline.
Kolasinac, 32, is one of the most experienced Serie A defenders, while Muharemovic is ten years younger and is in his first full season in Serie A.
He’s one of the most promising centre-backs in Italy’s top flight and has proved to be dangerous on both ends with two goals and two assists in 26 league games this term.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – DECEMBER 06: Tarik Muharemovic of US Sassuolo Calcio celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and ACF Fiorentina at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on December 06, 2025 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Muharemovic played the full 120 minutes for Bosnia against Wales, even producing a brilliant clearance in extra time, while Kolasinac was replaced at minute 62.
A product of the Juventus Academy, Muharemovic had already spoken about a possible meeting with Italy in the World Cup play-off Final this past December.
“I’m not worried, I’ll be waiting for you. At our home,” the Sassuolo defender toldGazzetta.
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 21: Francisco Conceicao of Juventus and Tarik Muharemovic of US Sassuolo Calcio battle for possession during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Allianz Stadium on March 21, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
“I used to be more shy, and I was scared even when I was playing. I had a personality close to my mother’s. Now I’ve become tough like my father. He changed me. He made me understand that, as the older of two sons, when he was away from home, it was my responsibility to protect the family. In the same way, today I feel the duty to defend on the pitch, even the more experienced teammates.”
Another defender in the Bosnia and Herzegovina squad, Dennis Hadzikadunic, plays in Italy with Serie B side Sampdoria, on loan from Rostov.
Wales took the lead with Daniel James at minute 51, but ex-Fiorentina, Inter and Roma star Edin Dzeko sent the game to extra time with a late goal at minute 86. With no goals scored in the additional 30 minutes, the match was ultimately decided by a penalty shootout.
CARDIFF, WALES – MARCH 26: Brennan Johnson of Wales reacts after a missed chance during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-off match between Wales and Bosnia and Herzegovina at Cardiff City Stadium on March 26, 2026 in Cardiff, Wales. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
Wales’ Karl Darlow stopped Ermedin Demirović’s opening penalty, but Brennan Johnson and Neco Williams both faltered afterwards, Johnson blasting his shot over the bar and Williams denied by Bosnian keeper Nikola Vasilj. Kerim Alajbegović scored the decisive penalty, sending his national team to the Final against the Azzurri.
CARDIFF, WALES – MARCH 26: Edin Dzeko of Bosnia and Herzegovina celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammates during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-off match between Wales and Bosnia and Herzegovina at Cardiff City Stadium on March 26, 2026 in Cardiff, Wales. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images)
The World Cup play-off Final between Bosnia and Italy will be played at the Bilino Polje in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina, on Tuesday, March 31. The kick-off time has yet to be determined, but it will either be at 18:00 CET or 20:45 CET.
BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 26: Sandro Tonali of Italy celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match between Italy and Northern Ireland at Stadio di Bergamo on March 26, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Tonali was the Man of the Match for Italy against Northern Ireland tonight as he not only scored the opener, but also provided the assist for Kean.
Tonali and Kean scored a goal each in the second half to give Italy a 2-0 win over Northern Ireland in Bergamo on Thursday night.
The Newcastle star opened the account with a shot from the edge of the box at minute 56 and assisted Kean for the Azzurri’s second goal at minute 80.
The Fiorentina star did the rest with a perfect ball control inside the box and a precise finish at the far post.
BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 26: Sandro Tonali of Italy celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammates Mateo Retegui and Moise Kean during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match between Italy and Northern Ireland at Stadio di Bergamo on March 26, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Vincenzo Montella’s Turkiye have qualified for the World Cup play-off final, beating Romania 1-0, but Inter star Hakan Calhanoglu was subbed off in the dying minutes due to a suspected calf injury.
There’s mixed news for Montella’s Turkiye who beat Romania in the World Cup play-off semifinal on Thursday, but lost Inter star Calhanoglu due to a possible calf injury.
As reported by Sky Sport Italia, Calhanoglu sustained his new injury setback while taking a shot from distance around minute 85 and was then subbed off five minutes later.
The problem seems to be with his left calf, the same calf Calhanoglu injured in January during Inter’s home game against Napoli, which sidelined him for over a month.
DORTMUND, GERMANY – JUNE 18: Vincenzo Montella, Head Coach of Turkiye, gestures during the UEFA EURO 2024 group stage match between Turkiye and Georgia at Football Stadium Dortmund on June 18, 2024 in Dortmund, Germany. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
The extent of the injury remains to be seen, and Calhanoglu is in doubt for Turkiye’s World Cup play-off Final against either Kosovo or Slovakia next Tuesday.
MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 06: Hakan Calhanoglu of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s third goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Como 1907 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on December 06, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The 32-year-old has had several fitness issues since the start of 2026, making just five Serie A appearances since January and missing six league games due to injuries.
Italy will play Northern Ireland in the World Cup play-off semi-final on March 26, while the potential final will be played away against Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina on March 31.
The March international break marks a crucial moment for the Azzurri as Gennaro Gattuso’s boys will be tasked with qualifying for the World Cup after missing the previous two editions in 2018 and 2022.
The semi-final will be played at home in Bergamo against Northern Ireland on March 26, while the potential final is an away fixture against either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Both semi-finals will be played on March 26 at 20:45 CET. Football Italia will provide live updates via a live blog, but you can also follow live action through the livescore app.
Oddly, if Italy fail to beat Northern Ireland, they’ll still play a second game during the March break, also on March 31, but against the loser of the Wales-Bosnia and Herzegovina game.
BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND – NOVEMBER 17: Jamie Donley of Northern Ireland celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Northern Ireland and Luxembourg at Windsor Park on November 17, 2025 in Belfast, Northern Ireland. (Photo by Charles McQuillan/Getty Images)
It goes without saying that the game against Northern Ireland is beyond crucial for the Azzurri.
After missing out on qualification in 2018 and 2022, Italy cannot afford another fiasco, especially as one of the most successful countries in the competition, with four World Cup victories, just one behind Brazil.
Inevitably, pressure is mounting on the Azzurri, who will start preparations for the semi-final on March 23 at their training centre in Coverciano.
Gattuso was hired less than a year ago to replace Luciano Spalletti and has won five of six, losing the most recent one to Norway 4-1 at San Siro.
Italy legend Gigi Buffon, one of the 2006 Italy World Cup winners alongside Gattuso, had a role in the coach’s appointment as the Azzurri’s delegation chief.
PARIS, FRANCE – SEPTEMBER 06: Gianluigi Buffon of Italy attends before the UEFA Nations League 2024/25 League A Group A2 match between France and Italy at Parc des Princes stadium on September 06, 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)
Buffon, however, has already announced that he’ll step down from his role if the Azzurri fail to qualify for the World Cup.
“I’m always the first to take responsibility for everything. I’ll step aside if a scapegoat needs to be found,” said the legendary goalkeeper in a recent interview.
“I’ll pack up and go home. Is that the problem? What kind of reasoning is that? It drives me crazy. There’s never any effort to understand whether a professional actually has values or is capable. Instead, it’s like flipping a coin; if things go well, everyone is great, if they go badly, everyone is useless. I find this way of thinking and making choices embarrassing, but apparently it’s fine.
“We need to be constructive and optimistic and not always act like harsh critics,” he continued.
“In my opinion, it shows very little love, not just for the national team, but for the nation itself. In Italy, football isn’t just about sport; it’s about something more. It has much greater value. Now that we’re facing more difficulties, people should support us, yet instead they attack us. That bothers me.”
Italy began preparations for the World Cup play-off on Monday, March 23.
Coach Gattuso held a press conference to explain his squad selection and even why the semi-final against Northern Ireland will be played in Bergamo, rather than in a bigger stadium, such as San Siro.
“I chose the stadium. I want to thank the President and Buffon for letting me decide. I believe that when you go to a 60,000-seat stadium like San Siro, there are Inter and Milan fans, and they might start booing after a few wrong passes. Playing in a smaller stadium will likely give us a better atmosphere,” Gattuso said.
“They did so in my first game as Italy’s coach, despite finishing the first half with a 0-0 draw. We hope to create a real cauldron-like atmosphere and that we haven’t messed things up.
“Thursday’s game is the only target. All the rest is the past, and I think we have a great chance.
“All players who are here are aware of what we play for and how important this game is,” continued the Azzurri boss.
“We do what we have to in order to get to the game with great tranquillity; there’s no need to suffocate them. These are players who have won a lot, played Champions League Finals, and won the Euros with the Azzurri shirt. I strongly believe in our players. It takes great confidence because these players are accustomed to playing these games, so we must have the right mentality and serenity.
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 16: Referee, Alejandro Hernandez, shows a yellow card to Gennaro Gattuso, Head Coach of Italy, during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Norway at San Siro Stadium on November 16, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“We must get to this game with great desire, be clear-headed and smell the danger. We respect the opponents, they run so much, they have a big heart and are scary from set pieces.”
Federico Chiesa was initially included in the team but ultimately pulled out due to not being fully fit, so Gattuso called up Bologna’s Nicolò Cambiaghi instead.
Inter star Alessandro Bastoni missed the last two games at a club level, but should be eligible to play in the World Cup play-off semi-final for the Azzurri as he continued to recover from a fibula injury at the Azzurri training centre, Coverciano.
Como director, Carlalberto Ludi says there is a ‘high probability’ that Nico Paz will spend another year at the club and is also confident about Cesc Fabregas’ stay ‘until something extraordinary happens.’
Argentine talent Nico Paz has been among the best Serie A players this season, prompting several media outlets to claim that Real Madrid would re-sign him at the end of the season.
During an interview with Radio Radio Lo Sport, however, Como’s sporting director Ludi said he was confident Paz would spend another season at the Stadio Sinigaglia.
“There is a high probability that Nico Paz will stay with us for another year,” Ludi said via Calciomercato.com.
As previously stated by Como President Mirwan Suwarso, a decision on Nico Paz’s future is entirely up to Real Madrid, as the Merengues have an option to re-sign the Argentine until 2027 and can match any offer Como receive in the same period.
COMO, ITALY – JANUARY 24: Como 1907 coach Cesc Fabregas issues instructions to his player Nico Paz of Como 1907 during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Torino FC at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on January 24, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“It’s always the same story. We cannot control the will of others,” Ludi continued.
“We are happy with him [Nico Paz], and he is very happy with us. Any European competition would play in our favour. The chances of him staying are still high today, even if the World Cup has to be considered too.”
Como sit fourth in the Serie A table with a three-point lead over Juventus and Roma, so even the Azzurri’s coach, Cesc Fabregas, has been subject to speculation.
COMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Como 1907 coach Cesc Fabregas looks o during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and US Lecce at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on February 28, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“We have already talked several times. Right now, we are in a sweet spot. There is total alignment between what he wants to do and Como,” Ludi concluded.
“We want to continue growing, and we make resources available to him without limits. Until something extraordinary happens on the market concerning him, we will move forward together. We can talk about what we offer him, not what others might offer. At this moment, we have no fear that he might leave us.”
Milan and Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly interested in Manchester United-owned striker Marcus Rashford as Barcelona are unsure about signing the Englishman permanently.
Milan follow Rashford amid Barcelona’s ‘backtrack’
Caughtoffside reports that Milan and PSG are monitoring Rashford’s situation at Barcelona, as the Catalans are unsure whether to make the striker’s move permanent in the summer.
The La Liga giants have a €30m clause to sign Rashford permanently from Manchester United, and only a few months ago, they seemed willing to activate it.
A source with direct knowledge of the matter has now said that Barcelona are “backtracking” on Rashford, although it remains unclear whether the Catalans are unwilling to retain him or are simply trying to negotiate a lower fee for a permanent transfer.
According to the source, Barcelona’s finances are “an issue” for the Catalans, although Rashford is expected to push to stay at the club beyond the summer.
LONDON, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 25: Marcus Rashford of Barcelona looks on during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between Chelsea FC and FC Barcelona at Stamford Bridge on November 25, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Milan and PSG will continue to monitor the situation in the coming months, as both sides have previously shown interest in the striker.
Rashford, 28, has scored ten goals and provided 13 assists in 39 appearances across all competitions this season.
Sky Sport Italia reports that Romelu Lukaku could receive a hefty fine for remaining in Belgium without the club’s approval, but the striker will likely face consequences on the pitch as well.
Lukaku has infuriated Napoli after deciding to remain in Belgium following his withdrawal from the national team without the club’s approval.
The 32-year-old will reportedly spend the next few days in Antwerp to train at the same clinic where Kevin De Bruyne recovered from a high-degree muscle injury in previous months.
According to Sky, Lukaku faces consequences both on and off the pitch after breaking one of the club’s internal rules.
The ex-Inter, Roma and Chelsea striker will likely receive a hefty fine given that he was expected to return to the Napoli training centre today.
Talks between the club and the player’s camp are reportedly ongoing, but according to Sky, Lukaku seems unwilling to return to Naples before next week.
NAPOLI, ITALY – AUGUST 31: Romelu Lukaku of SSC Napoli talks with his coach Antonio Conte during the Serie A match between Napoli and Parma at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on August 31, 2024 in Napoli, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Coach Antonio Conte has also taken time off during the break, but in agreement with the club, so training sessions at Castelvolturno are currently led by his assistant Cristian Stellini.
Lukaku’s decision has upset the club and Conte equally, and the Belgian is expected to face an uphill climb to secure consistent playing time in the second part of the campaign.
NAPLES, ITALY – FEBRUARY 10: Romelu Lukaku of SSC Napoli reacts after missing a penalty in the penalty shootout during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Due to a severe muscle injury suffered in August, Lukaku has only recently made his 2025-26 debut, playing barely 60 minutes across seven competitions and scoring one goal.
Sky notes that Lukaku’s decision will likely lead to even less playing time, which might put his spot in the Belgium squad for the World Cup in danger.
Italy legend Christian Vieri agrees with Gennaro Gattuso that Moise Kean and Mateo Retegui form the ideal strike partnership for tonight’s World Cup play-off semifinal against Northern Ireland.
Italy have not qualified for the World Cup since 2014, and will face either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina away if they progress to the Final. Will they secure a qualification this time?
“Nobody knows, but I’m optimistic,” Vieri told Corriere della Sera via Calciomercato.com.
“We are Italy, and we must make it. Finally, we play this play-off, and we must do it with energy and positivity.
DORTMUND, GERMANY – MARCH 23: Moise Kean of Italy celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the UEFA Nations League Quarterfinal Leg Two match between Germany and Italy at Football Stadium Dortmund on March 23, 2025 in Dortmund, Germany. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)
“Northern Ireland is motivated; they haven’t played at a World Cup for 40 years, and it’s a team that runs a lot,” continued the ex-striker.
“But we play in Bergamo and the whole stadium will be blue. We must be charged and have a great desire, and honestly, the players have it. Another World Cup without Italy would not be okay.”
Gattuso is expected to start Retegui and Kean in attack tonight.
UDINE, ITALY – OCTOBER 14: Mateo Retegui of Italy celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Israel at Stadio Friuli on October 14, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“They have scored a lot, and they deserve trust,” Vieri agreed.
“I’d see Pio Esposito better coming on during the game. He’s our future, but let’s not put pressure on him. There are very few players this good at 20,” the ex-Azzurri star agreed.
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 22: Pio Esposito of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and FC Internazionale at Artemio Franchi on March 22, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
“He moved naturally from Spezia to playing at San Siro, where the whole world watches you. In Italy, there’s too much pressure. If Yamal has a bad game in Spain, nobody says anything. Here, all hell breaks loose.”
Multiple sources in Italy claim that ‘irritated’ Napoli could take disciplinary measures against Romelu Lukaku, who has decided to train in Belgium until next week without the club’s consent.
Belgium international Lukaku has not returned to Naples, where he was expected to resume training this morning.
Several sources, including Sky, Il Mattino and Repubblica, claim that Lukaku was due to return to the club’s training centre after informing Belgium national team coach Rudi Garcia that he was not fit to face Mexico and the USMNT in international friendlies during the break and needed more time to get back in shape.
According to Sky, Lukaku is unwilling to return to Naples before next week.
CAGLIARI, ITALY – MARCH 20: Napoli’s coach Antonio Conte looks on during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and SSC Napoli at Stadio Sant’Elia on March 20, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
Lukaku, on the other hand, has decided to remain in Antwerp to work on his full recovery at the same clinic where his compatriot and teammate, Kevin De Bruyne, was treated in recent months.
VERONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Romelu Lukaku of SSC Napoli and Unai Núñez of Hellas Verona during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on February 28, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Lukaku, 32, suffered a high-degree muscle injury during the pre-season in August and has only played 64 minutes across seven appearances this term, scoring one goal.
According to Repubblica, Napoli could take disciplinary measures against their striker, who chose to remain in Belgium without the club’s consent.
The injured Gianluca Scamacca has not been included in Italy’s squad list to face Northern Ireland, but Gennaro Gattuso has also dropped Juventus’ Andrea Cambiaso and three more.
Italy CT Gattuso has named his squad list for tonight’s World Cup play-off semifinal against Northern Ireland.
As reported by TMW, Scamacca’s omission has been confirmed as the Atalanta striker had been training separately at Coverciano over the last few days.
Four more players had to be cut from the squad list, and Gattuso has decided to drop Cambiaso, the goalkeeper Elia Caprile, the defender Diego Coppola, and the winger Nicolò Cambiaghi.
BERLIN, GERMANY – JUNE 29: Gianluca Scamacca of Italy during the UEFA EURO 2024 round of 16 match between Switzerland and Italy at Olympiastadion on June 29, 2024 in Berlin, Germany. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
With Politano expected to start as a right midfielder and Cambiaso dropped, Atalanta-owned Marco Palestra, currently on loan at Cagliari, has been picked as a backup for the right flank.
Andrea Cambiaso plays for Italy against Moldova in a 2026 World Cup qualifier (@azzurri)
The 21-year-old has earned his first senior international call-up and is now eligible to feature for the Azzurri for the first time.
Official Italy squad list for Northern Ireland clash
Former Italy coach Cesare Prandelli is ‘optimistic’ about tonight’s game against Northern Ireland, particularly because of Gennaro Gattuso’s ‘new’ approach, but warns that opponents deserve respect: ‘If you think it’s easy, then it will all become more difficult.’
Italy host Northern Ireland in Bergamo in a massive World Cup play-off semifinal tonight.
“I’m optimistic for a simple reason: Gattuso has chosen a new path that will give great results, I’m sure about it,” Prandelli, a former Italy coach and 2012 Euro Finalist, told Gazzetta.
“He’s had a direct relationship with the players. They didn’t even give him a stage, two days to spend with the team. So what did he do? He toured Italy and Europe, meeting all his players.
“At lunch, for dinner, like being among friends, not necessarily talking about football. It’s easy for him because he’s a nice person who pays attention to these nuances.”
Prandelli can already see the positive effects of Gattuso’s approach: “The players feel they are part of a family, a united group, where some things matter more than tactics,” he said.
BERGAMO, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 05: Players of Italy during the National Anthem during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Estonia at Stadio di Bergamo on September 05, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)
“Because of any incident, like a goal conceded after one minute, or hitting the post, any project is blown up, but the group remains.
“Historically, when we win, it is because the team spirit has been created. The Azzurri no longer felt abandoned; while around them, that was the feeling. Rino could not work with them until Monday, so he decided to proceed differently.”
NATAL, BRAZIL – JUNE 24: Head coach Cesare Prandelli of Italy reacts during the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Group D match between Italy and Uruguay at Estadio das Dunas on June 24, 2014 in Natal, Brazil. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
Italy are the clear favourites in tonight’s clash, but this doesn’t mean the opponent should be overlooked.
“We are superior, but the same was true in the past, and we were left disappointed,” Prandelli concluded.
“Now everyone expects success, but football doesn’t work this way. Our opponents deserve the utmost respect. If you think it’s easy, then it will all become more difficult.”
Mateo Retegui will step up if Italy are awarded a penalty against Northern Ireland, but who else would take responsibility if the match goes to a shootout after 120 minutes?
Italy host Northern Ireland in the World Cup play-off semifinal tonight and will be hoping to qualify for the final without having to play 120 minutes or more.
Retegui has already converted a penalty kick against Israel, but missed one against Estonia.
As reported by Gazzetta, the likes of Moise Kean, Matteo Politano, Sandro Tonali, and Manuel Locatelli are the most likely to step up if the game goes to a shootout, but the Azzurri will surely want to avoid this outcome.
Over the last two years at Fiorentina, Kean has scored three penalty kick goals and missed one.
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 16: Matteo Politano of Italy is challenged by Antonio Nusa of Norway during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Norway at San Siro Stadium on November 16, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Politano has taken four penalty kicks for Napoli, all in Coppa Italia shootouts, without missing.
Tonali has not taken penalty kicks for Newcastle, but scored two from two at Milan.
Locatelli missed the most recent penalty kick taken with Juventus, but had scored the previous two this season.
Gianluca Mancini missed a penalty kick in the Europa League Final shootout in 2023, while his Roma teammate Bryan Cristante didn’t fail.
RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA – DECEMBER 19: Nicolò Barella of FC Internazionale competes for the ball with Jonathan Rowe of Bologna FC during the Supercoppa Italiana semifinal match between Bologna FC 1909 and FC Internazionale at King Saud University Stadium on December 19, 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Abdullah Ahmed/Getty Images)
Alessandro Bastoni and Nicolò Barella missed their most recent penalty kicks, both in the shootout of a Supercoppa Italiana semifinal against Bologna this past December.
Raspadori missed one penalty kick for Napoli, but scored one for Italy in a 3-3 draw against Germany in 2023.
La Gazzetta dello Sport examines the figures behind Italy’s possible qualification for the World Cup, arguing that the Azzurri literally can’t afford another play-off elimination.
The Azzurri have not qualified for the World Cup since 2014, facing qualification play-off exits both in 2017 and 2022.
Italy hope for financial boost from 2026 World Cup
The potential sporting consequences of another elimination are well known, but Gazzetta argues that even the country’s finances would be affected if the Azzurri fail to secure a World Cup spot.
The pink paper quotes a report by the University of Surrey, based on OECF data starting in 1961, which estimates an average 0.25% increase in GDP over the two periods following a victory in a major tournament.
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 16: Referee, Alejandro Hernandez, shows a yellow card to Gennaro Gattuso, Head Coach of Italy, during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Norway at San Siro Stadium on November 16, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Furthermore, Coldiretti, the largest association of agricultural producers in Italy and Europe, “has even suggested growth between 07% and 1% in our country during recent successes (the 2026 World Cup and the 2020 Euros),” wrote Gazzetta’s financial expert Marco Iaria.
Additionally, according to StageUp, Italy’s presence at the 2026 World Cup would generate around €90m in advertising and sponsorship revenue, plus a €10m FIFA participation fee for the Italian FA.
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 16: General view inside the stadium prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Norway at San Siro Stadium on November 16, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
From TVs and restaurants to the betting sector, multiple industries would benefit from Italy’s qualification for the World Cup.
“A national team competing on the biggest global stage, with an audience of 6 billion people, would represent a breath of fresh air for a zero-growth country like Italy,” concluded Gazzetta.
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 16: Players of Italy sing the national anthem prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Norway at San Siro Stadium on November 16, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“A country that is also approaching the end of the boost provided by the National Recovery Resilience Plan in Italy, the European recovery plan from which it has received €194.4 billion in recent years.”
Alessandro Bastoni is expected to feature in Italy’s XI in the World Cup play-off semi-final against Northern Ireland, with Mateo Retegui and Moise Kean starting in attack.
It kicks off at 20:45 CET (19:45 GMT) at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo.
It’s a massive night for the Azzurri, who have not played in the World Cup since 2014.
Inter star Bastoni has missed the last two games at a club level with a bruised fibula, but Italian media report that the defender has recovered and will start in a three-man backline alongside Gianluca Mancini and Riccardo Calafiori.
Several Italian sources, including Gazzetta and Corriere dello Sport, report that Matteo Politano is favourite over Marco Palestra in the right wing-back position, while Sandro Tonali, Nicolò Barella and Manuel Locatelli will start in central midfield.
Kean and Retegui will start in attack, with Francesco Pio Esposito initially on the bench.
The winner will face Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina away in the Final on Tuesday, March 31.
Italy vs. Northern Ireland – where to watch on TV
The match will be broadcast live on the BBC in the UK and Ireland. It is also available in a livestream on FUBO/Vix in the USA. Football Italia will provide live updates via a liveblog
In Bergamo (20:45), to beat Northern Ireland. Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina on Tuesday. A generation has never seen the Azzurri in the World Cup.
Gattuso: ‘We must return where we deserve after 12 years.’
Kean and Retegui: strike partnership. Penalty-kick takers decided too.
Inter: Transfer shake, Barcelona want Bastoni
Corriere dello Sport
Italy play-off
Do it for us
There’s Northern Ireland at 20:45 in Bergamo: entire generations have never seen the Azzurri at the World Cup. We’ve been missing since 2014.
Gattuso: ‘I have the country on my shoulders.’
After two incredible failures, the third one would not be acceptable. The CT’s charge: ‘It’s the most important game of my career.’ Kean to partner with Retegui. Three-man defence: Bastoni, Mancini and Calafiori. If we go to the Final, we’ll face Wales or Bosnia on Tuesday, 31.
Tuttosport
Bergamo, 20:45: Play-off semifinal with Northern Ireland. We can’t fail. The World Cup is waiting for us.
You are Italy
Everyone with the Azzurri urged to show their superiority against the Britons. Gattuso: ‘I feel the country on my shoulders. People have been stopping me in the streets for seven months, saying, ‘Take us to the World Cup. It was shocking not to qualify for the last two. They know how to do a few things, but very well.’ Retegui: ‘It’s the most important week of the year; it’s special for me. The stadium will drag us.’ Baston recovers, Politano favourite over Palestra: if we win, we’ll play for America against Wales or Bosnia.
Alisson, Rudiger, Pellegrini: Lucio calls the pretorians
Spalletti pushes to have the defender and the defender coached at Roma. The coach appreciates the midfielder. The new curse will begin from departures too: an entire team is up for sale.
Revolution on the wings: Barbieri is on Toro’s list too.
Italy international Riccardo Calafiori says he’s fit to play against Northern Ireland on Thursday and jokes: ‘I’ve spoken more with Gattuso than with my mother in recent months. .’
Arsenal defender Calafiori held a press conference at Italy’s Coverciano training base on Tuesday, ahead of the crucial upcoming World Cup play-off campaign.
Calafiori on Italy vs. Northern Ireland, Arsenal form and Gattuso relationship
Gennaro Gattuso said on Monday that Calafiori had suffered a little discomfort during Arsenal’s 2-0 loss against Manchester City in the EFL Cup Final.
“I feel well, let’s see on the field today, but I’m fine. In such a delicate moment, the key is to always live in the present, enjoy every single moment and focus on one game at a time,” Calafiori told the media, including Football Italia.
Italy will face Northern Ireland in the World Cup play-off semi-final on Thursday, March 26, while the potential Final will be played away against Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina on Tuesday, March 31.
“Honestly, as I’ve always said, I prefer to just focus on ourselves; it’s not the moment to focus on the opponents; it depends more on us,” said the Arsenal defender.
“The game must be prepared just as a normal game. We know how important it is, but we must feel light. On set pieces, I feel that we must be very focused, especially defensively. We know they can be dangerous in these situations. We can be dangerous too, but in today’s football, set pieces make a difference, and details are crucial.”
Northern Ireland are expected to rely mostly on dead balls and set pieces to hurt the Azzurri.
“As soon as they have the ball, they’ll try to play this way. The only way is to try to avoid these types of play as much as we can, stay focused on second balls, and stay focused from start to finish,” noted Calafiori.
The Italy international is in his second season at Arsenal. What are the biggest differences between Italian and English football?
“There’s a lot of talk about the Premier League, but in the end, it’s only us [Arsenal] left [in the Champions League].
Calafiori, however, forget about Liverpool who are still involved in Europe’s elite competition.
LEEDS, ENGLAND – JANUARY 31: Riccardo Calafiori of Arsenal arrives at the stadium prior to the Premier League match between Leeds United and Arsenal at Elland Road on January 31, 2026 in Leeds, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
“The Champions League is a tough competition, also for English clubs. Football is not an exact science,” he added.
“I believe that the biggest difference is mostly in the intensity of training and games, but the real training is the game in the Premier League. Especially for a team like us that plays twice a week and doesn’t train much, it’s all the game’s merit. The feeling is that there’s high intensity and there are fewer dead moments.
Italy have scored 19 goals in six games under Gattuso, but conceded nine times. Yet Calafiori is not concerned about the Azzurri’s defensive solidity.
“It’s not the main problem, as usual, when you make a mistake or concede a goal, it’s not just one department at fault. We must not dwell on the past, but stay together these days and achieve the result we all want,” he said.
“I like to remember the game against Estonia in Bergamo. We had good feelings, and I hope the stadium can help us a lot, and hopefully, on Thursday, it will be even better.
“Obviously, I hope for a game where we’ll dominate proceedings and have the bigger chances, but I said before, we can’t imagine how the game will go. The message we want to send is to be united, as close as possible, and very positive, because I think it will help us. In these games, technique and tactics are important, but it’s union that will make us go ahead.”
Gennaro Gattuso and his assistants visited Italian players over the last few months.
BERGAMO, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 05: Coach Gennaro Gattuso of Italy looks on prior to the National anthems prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Estonia at Stadio di Bergamo on September 05, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)
“I really appreciated the coach’s attitude. I’ve spoken more with him than with my mother in recent months. I’m pretty shy, but he was good at staying close to me because there was a moment when I was out. That dinner was nice, we spent time together and it was nice to do so. We didn’t have a chance to train together these past months, but the most important thing is spending time together.
“He [Gattiso] paid for it [the dinner]! It felt like a night out with friends. We spoke about football and other things. Buffon and Leo [Bonucci] were there too, and they spoke to us about their experience. Then we spoke a bit about the game, there’s nothing more to add.”
Why should Italy fans be confident?
“Because we all want the same thing,” Calafiori replied.
“Why should we make life difficult for ourselves? I like to think positively. In the end, when one has a positive mindset, one achieves what one wants.
“Pressure is there; we can’t avoid it. We know how important this game is. We try not to think about it, the game is just two days away. I’m happy to play this game and this is the message I want to send. The other side of the coin is that it might go badly, but we want to think positively, because this week can bring happiness and send us to the World Cup in America, that’s the only thing I think about.
Riccardo Calafiori Italy EPA-EFE/DAVIDE CASENTINI
“It’s all about how you look at this game. Evidently, it’s a responsibility. There are millions of people watching us, but I see it as an opportunity. To have such a beautiful chance. This is something we’ve been dreaming of since we were kids. I can’t wait to play this game.”
Calafiori has made 29 appearances across all competitions at a club level this term, scoring one goal and providing three assists.
The ex-Bologna and Roma defender made his senior Italy debut under Luciano Spalletti in June 2024, just a few days before the start of the Euros, and now has 12 international appearances under his belt.
Udinese and Watford owner Giampaolo Pozzo says Como’s results this season are ‘miraculous’ and hopes Lorenzo Lucca will revive his career: ‘It’s impossible for such a young player to reverse his performances from one year to the next completely.’
Udinese and Watford owner Pozzo released an interview with GR Parlamento (via TMW) to explain his view on the future of both clubs.
Pozzo insisted that Udinese are not for sale, though the Bianconeri are looking for a financial partner to improve on-field results.
Pozzo: Udinese not for sale
“First of all, I want to clarify that we don’t want to sell; we want to make the club more European, just as Atalanta have done, to improve sporting results,” he said.
“We have a regional budget, and currently, the objective is a comfortable survival. We’ve always tried to strengthen the team, and if somebody wants to come to Udinese for a potential project, we are here under any condition. It’s hard to talk about figures, but the rumoured negotiation, which we might even have signed, regarded a possible sale for €300m. But we don’t want to sell, we’d like a partnership with some funds to improve on a sporting level.”
Udinese sit 11th in the Serie A table, with 39 points in 30 matches, which means they are practically safe with eight games to spare.
Their striker, Keinan Davis, who they signed from Aston Villa in 2023, has scored 10 goals and provided three assists in 26 appearances across all competitions.
“We paid him €3m; he’s a very good player, and he’s also very good in terms of his attitude towards the club,” Pozzo said.
“He’s had difficult moments, but if you pass him the ball, he knows how to handle it and how to score.”
CAGLIARI, ITALY – MARCH 07: the coach of Como Cesc Fabregas look on during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and Como 1907 at Stadio Sant’Elia on March 07, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
Udinese once fought for European places in Serie A, while this season, Como are surprisingly battling for a Champions League spot, currently sitting fourth in Serie A.
“In truth, they are miraculous. Money is not enough; one must be capable too,” Pozzo said.
“They are doing incredible things. They are good at management and have made all the right choices, including signing the right players. I don’t know them personally, but they’ve invested the money well.”
LEEDS, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 06: Lorenzo Lucca embraces Igor Jesus of Nottingham Forest as Omari Hutchinson and Sean Dyche look on during the Premier League match between Leeds United and Nottingham Forest at Elland Road on February 06, 2026 in Leeds, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Udinese sold Lorenzo Lucca to Napoli last summer, but the Italian striker failed to impress with the Partenopei in the first part of the season and hasn’t shown real improvement since joining Nottingham Forest on loan in January.
“He performed well here, but patience is needed because things don’t work well right away,” noted Pozzo.
“It’s impossible for such a young player to reverse his performances from one year to the next completely. He must surely return to be the footballer we’ve known, with character and able to score goals.”
Lastly, the Italian businessman talked about English Championship side Watford and their main target for this season.
“It’s a tough league; we are looking for young talent to develop, so we go ahead with patience. The target is to get promoted to the Premier League; let’s see if we’ll make it,” Pozzo concluded.
Italy are gearing up for the World Cup play-off, but at least 12 Azzurri are still expected to have a hectic summer, regardless of qualification, as they could be set to switch clubs ahead of the 2026-27 season.
Italy players who might change clubs in the summer: goalkeepers
La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that several Italian players might change clubs over the summer, regardless of whether the Azzurri qualify for the World Cup.
There’s already plenty of rumours on the futures of goalkeepers Guglielmo Vicario, Elia Caprile and Marco Carnesecchi.
Vicario, in particular, has attracted interest from Inter, and the Nerazzuri’s sporting director, Piero Ausilio, met his agent in London last week. The Tottenham goalkeeper is a regular in the Azzurri squad but is not part of the team this month after undergoing hernia surgery.
Italy players who might change club in the summer: defenders
The Nerazzurri might receive offers for Alessandro Bastoni as well, with the Italy international recently linked with a move to Barcelona. According to the report, however, the Serie A table leaders won’t listen to offers below €60m for the 26-year-old.
Atalanta-owned Marco Palestra, now on loan at Cagliari, has earned his first Italy call-up this month and according to Gazzetta, La Dea’s asking price for the promising full-back is close to €40m, just as much as goalkeeper Carnesecchi.
Federico Gatti has recently extended his contract with Juventus. Yet, his future in Turin under Luciano Spalletti remains uncertain as Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri is tempted to reunite with the Italian centre-back at San Siro.
Italy players who might change clubs in the summer: midfielders
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – JANUARY 07: Sandro Tonali of Newcastle United arrives at the stadium prior to the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Leeds United at St James’ Park on January 07, 2026 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Sandro Tonali is arguably the biggest star in the Azzurri squad, alongside Donnarumma, but Newcastle will not let the ex-Milan midfielder leave for less than €70m.
Inter’s Davide Frattesi will likely look for a fresh start next season as he’s been struggling with playing time under Cristian Chivu this term, while Inter will only consider Nicolò Barella’s exit for a big-money offer.
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 22: Moise Kean of ACF Fiorentina reacts during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and FC Internazionale at Artemio Franchi on March 22, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Italy players who might change clubs in the summer: strikers
Strikers Moise Kean and Mateo Retegui are expected to change clubs next season. The Fiorentina forward has a €62m clause that can be activated in the first two weeks of July, while Retegui is reportedly eager to return to Serie A, but will have to lower the €16m salary he earns at Al-Qadsiah FC.
Last but not least is Federico Chiesa, who has pulled out of the Azzurri squad for the World Cup play-off but will likely seek an exit from Liverpool, where he has played less than 700 minutes this season.
Former Italy star Antonio Di Natale praises Inter talent Francesco Pio Esposito: ‘He reminds me a little of Van Basten, he’s the future of the Azzurri.’
Di Natale: Pio Esposito is the future of the Italy national team
Pio Esposito, scorer of three goals in five appearances with the Italy national team, is part of the Azzurri squad for the World Cup play-off.
“I’m convinced he’ll score many more and that he’ll be the future of the Azzurri for the next 15 years,” Di Natale told Gazzetta.
“Pio is so good, and I’m happy with the season he’s having. It was not easy to immediately show his qualities in his first season in Serie A, become an Inter starter, and earn an Italy call-up.”
Both Di Natale and Pio come from Naples, and the former striker met the promising centre-forward last year at Spezia.
“I root for him, and I wish him to do even better than all the other Neapolitans who have worn an Azzurri shirt,” Di Natale said.
“I’ve built a strong bond with La Nazionale and have great memories.
UDINE, ITALY – MAY 15: Antonio Di Natale of Udinese Calcio say hello to the fans after their last games the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and Carpi FC at Stadio Friuli on May 15, 2016 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Dino Panato/Getty Images)
“I met him at Spezia last season, when I went to visit the director Andrea Gazzoli, and both Pio and his brother Salvatore played there. He’s not just a very good striker, but also a serious and humble guy. Even back then, you could predict he was destined to play for a top club.”
Luca Toni was the Italy centre-forward when the Azzurri won the World Cup in 2006, but Di Natale feels Pio is more similar to another Serie A legend.
“He’s a bit different from Luca in the movements he makes, and I say it with great respect. He reminds me a little of Van Basten,” he said.
Inter came back from two goals down in a home Serie A clash against Pisa, completing a comeback with Piotr Zielinski, Lautaro Martinez and Francesco Pio Esposito in the opening Round 22 match.
Italy will play Northern Ireland in the World Cup play-off semifinal in Bergamo on March 26.
“We deserve the qualification, and I’m convinced we’ll make it against Northern Ireland, even if they have nothing to lose. But we are Italy, and we must show it,” Di Natale, scorer of 11 goals in 42 Italy appearances, said.
“Gattuso and I played together with the national team, and I respect him as a man and as a coach. He’s the right person to bring us to the World Cup. It’s a competition Italy can’t miss.”
Tuttosport newspaper reports that Juventus are in talks with Real Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger, who is available on a free transfer as his contract expires in June.
Juventus are interested in Real Madrid centre-back Rudiger and, according to Tuttosport, the Serie A giants have already opened talks with the Germany international whose contract with the Merengues expires in June.
The Bianconeri’s coach, Luciano Spalletti, is a huge admirer of the experienced centre-back. The pair already worked together at Roma from 2015 to 2017, with the defender making 54 appearances at the Olimpico under the Italian tactician.
According to the report, Liverpool and Manchester United have also sounded out the defender’s availability, but the Red Devils are expected to pull out of the race if they reach an agreement to extend Harry Maguire’s contract.
Juventus are reportedly determined to offer Rudiger a three-year contract worth €5m-€6m per season.
DORTMUND, GERMANY – MARCH 23: Moise Kean of Italy is challenged by Antonio Rudiger of Germany during the UEFA Nations League Quarterfinal Leg Two match between Germany and Italy at Football Stadium Dortmund on March 23, 2025 in Dortmund, Germany. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)
The defender’s future at the Bernabéu remains uncertain, even though the ex-Roma star has recently regained a starting spot under Álvaro Arbeloa.
If the Spaniard remains in charge of Real Madrid for 2026-27, he’ll ask the club to extend Rudiger’s contract.
The former Empoli and Cagliari goalkeeper is not part of the Azzurri squad for the World Cup play-off after being forced to undergo hernia surgery.
As reported by SportMediaset, the Italian goalkeeper went under the knife on Monday.
The 29-year-old took to social media from his hospital bed, taking a selfie and sending a message to the Azzurri: ‘See you soon, Azzurri,’ Vicario wrote.
Vicario’s social media post after surgery
Guglielmo Vicario’s Instagram story on March 23, 2026.
With Vicario forced to the sidelines for the next few weeks, Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso has called Elia Caprile, Alex Meret and Marco Carnesecchi, as well as captain Gigio Donnarumma, for the upcoming World Cup play-off.
IPSWICH, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 22: Guglielmo Vicario of Tottenham Hotspur reacts during the Premier League match between Ipswich Town FC and Tottenham Hotspur FC at Portman Road on February 22, 2025 in Ipswich, England. (Photo by Paul Harding/Getty Images)
The Azzurri will host Northern Ireland in Bergamo in the semi-final on Thursday, March 26, and if they progress to the Final, they’ll face either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina away on Tuesday, March 31.
Leao is recharging at Milanello, and Conte goes on holiday.
Pio growls
Kean-Retegui to start, but Esposito is at the top. Italy recover Bastoni and Mancini, Chiesa goes. The CT: ‘We are not a bunch of nobodies.’
Chivu’s order: never again without Lautaro
Diao, Yildiz, Vaz: fourth place? A child’s play
Corriere dello Sport
Marotta’s shield
The president takes excuses off the table: ‘We must not act as victims.’
‘Stronger than referees.’
‘Inter are first at +6, no psychodrama.’
‘All clubs complain, at the end of the season, favourable and unfavourable incidents get balanced. We are in a regression phase, but nobody would ever expect this advantage.’ The algorithm keeps saying Chivu: Italy champion at 89%.
Vlahovic and Milik: Lucio’s weapons
Roma, silences and issues of Gasp
Sergeant Taylor: Lazio start again
Napoli, the hand of God needed
Five home games, where they are unbeaten since December 2024, in the last eight rounds.
Milan push: Goretzka for Max
His contract with Bayern expires, and an offer worth 6-7m per season is ready
‘Italy deserves joy.’
The CT: ‘A chance to live with lighthartedness, no stress.’ Chiesa out, Cambiaghi called up. From Bastoni to Mancini. Doubts in defence, Kean-Retegui in attack.
Tuttosport
Here’s who Spalletti votes for
Rudiger is the first in the list of targets. Elkann: ‘Juve? We don’t give up.’
Understand, lads?
Gattuso: ‘We are not a bunch of nobodies.’
On Thursday, against Northern Ireland, the first play-off to return to the World Cup after 12 years and avoid another blow for Italian football. The coach touches the Azzurri’s pride: ‘They’ve won titles and played finals, I want them to be focused, but I won’t stress them. I’ve picked Bergamo for its cauldron-like atmosphere.’ Chiesa gives up, Cambiaghi arrives.
Gasp, a silence that makes noise
Como show, yes, but what a defence!
Toro, Martin breaks through on the left, but half the team might leave.
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yeahhh he really doesn’t want to play for yous 
(@AntCacc14) 
(@RSharmzz) 
