Skip to content
BERGAMO, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 05: Sandro Tonali of Italy in action challenges for the ball with Kevor Palumets of Estonia 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)
Italy will be involved in the World Cup play-offs later this month, and Football Italia writers pick the ideal Azzurri squad, looking at midfielders after examining goalkeepers and defenders.
Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso will name his squad for the 2026 World Cup play-offs in just a few days.
The dates and opponents are well known.
The semifinal will be played at home, precisely in Bergamo, against Northern Ireland on March 26, and if the Azzurri progress to the final, they’ll visit either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Some players have a guaranteed spot in the squad, among them is surely Newcastle star Sandro Tonali, who has made five appearances under Gattuso and has become the highest-valued Italian player, according to Transfermarkt, alongside Inter star defender Alessandro Bastoni.
To continue reading this article, subscribe to Football Italia Supporters
Get a 7-day free trial
Or find out more about Football Italia Supporters
ByLorenzo Bettoni
Lorenzo Bettoni is the Editor of Football Italia.
