‘The issues we have’ – Liverpool star rejects international call-up

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Liverpool star Federico Chiesa has turned down a call-up to the Italian national team for this international break.It has been revealed by Italy manager Gennaro Gattuso that the Reds winger rejected the chance to join up with the squad.WATCH Liverpool fans sing their new chant for Federico Chiesa Chiesa was not included in the list of players called up for Italy's World Cup qualifiers against Moldova and Norway.And that led to questions being asked to boss Gattuso about why he decided not to pick the Liverpool forward.However, the Italian legend has admitted that it was a decision taken out of his hands by the player himself.Gattuso said in a press conference: "I must respect what the player tells me. I can't say anything else."Journalists in attendance then asked for confirmation that it was Chiesa's decision not to take the call-up.

And the Italy manager replied: "Yes, it’s already the fourth or fifth time that I’m explaining this."Gattuso previously explained why Chiesa wasn't selected for the October international break, saying: "The Chiesa issue is very simple. I talk to my players a lot, and I want to make that clear, a lot."I speak every week with Fede and he knows what I think of him, but I also have to respect what the player tells me.

He does not feel at 100 per cent and wants to be at 100 per cent, that is the truth."3Chiesa has not played for Italy since the round of 16 at Euro 2024Credit: Getty3And manager Gattuso has explained his continued absence from his squadCredit: AFPWhen did Chiesa last play for Italy?Chiesa, who has picked up a total of 51 caps for Italy has not played for his country since Euro 2024. 10 of his 12 appearances have been as a substitute and he remains a second-string player for Slot's side.Read More on talkSPORTChiesa was even left out of Liverpool's Champions League squad until an injury to Giovanni Leoni opened up another spot.And he now won't be getting some extra time on the pitch with Italy either.