Gianluigi Buffon has expressed that Italy is eagerly anticipating Federico Chiesa's return to the national team. However, he emphasised that the primary focus remains on the team's collective strength. Chiesa last played for Italy in June 2024 during their European Championship exit against Switzerland. Since joining Liverpool, his playing time has been limited, with only two starts in 12 appearances this season.
Chiesa has accumulated 51 caps and scored seven goals since his international debut in 2018. Despite his absence from recent call-ups under coach Gennaro Gattuso, Buffon believes Chiesa can significantly contribute to the squad. "We have to bring back all the best players," Buffon stated, highlighting the importance of including standout
players like Chiesa.
Buffon, who played 176 times for Italy, stressed that no deserving player is left out by Gattuso. "We're waiting for Chiesa; there are very few like him in Europe," he said. The emphasis remains on team unity and ensuring all capable players are part of the squad.
Our play-off path is set #Azzurri #VivoAzzurro pic.twitter.com/l4WjhnM7L9
- Italy (@Azzurri_En) November 20, 2025
Italy is set to face Northern Ireland in their World Cup play-off semi-final. The winner will compete against either Wales or Bosnia-Herzegovina for a spot in FIFA's top tournament. Having missed the last two World Cups at the play-off stage, Buffon is optimistic about avoiding a repeat failure this time.
"As Rino says, we are strong. Period," Buffon confidently remarked. He described the World Cup as a magical event that should be shared with the nation and stressed that missing it again is not an option. Buffon praised Gattuso as the ideal coach for this challenge.
The focus remains solely on securing victory in the upcoming match. Buffon concluded by saying they would address any future concerns only if they fail to qualify for the World Cup.
