Overview
- Gennaro Gattuso confirmed Federico Chiesa has refused another Italy call-up, saying he respects the player's decision and referring to ongoing personal problems.
- Chiesa has not played for Italy since Euro 2024 and will remain with Liverpool to train during the international window.
- Italy sit second in Group I, three points behind Norway, needing victories and a large goal swing to top the group, with a play-off place already secured if they finish second.
- Sandro Tonali is unlikely to face Norway because he is one booking from suspension, while Nicolò Barella is banned for Moldova but available for the San Siro match.
- Only 12 players trained on the first day of camp due to recovery protocols, Moise Kean is out injured, and a March preparatory camp for potential play-offs cannot be scheduled.