Francesco Acerbi Turns Down Italy Call-Up for World Cup Qualifiers

Francesco Acerbi has said no to joining the Italian national team. This news comes after Inter lost heavily in the Champions League final.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Inter’s defender Acerbi got a call from Italy‘s coach, Luciano Spalletti. He was asked to join the team for World Cup qualifiers against Norway on June 6 and Moldova on June 9.

But Acerbi sent a text to Spalletti saying he won’t join. The coach said Acerbi is not injured. Spalletti mentioned it was Acerbi’s personal choice. The coach added that Acerbi had been thinking of this for some time. Acerbi was reflecting on the difficult end of the club season.

ITALY’S CHALLENGE WITHOUT ACERBI

Acerbi’s absence is a significant blow to Italy’s defense. In fact, the 37-year-old was expected to add depth and experience to the team after Inter’s strong domestic campaign.

Following his return to the national squad after a year, Acerbi was expected to play a key role, especially after Inter’s recent 5-0 loss to Real Madrid in the Champions League final.

Inter finished the season as Serie A champions, and Acerbi played 34 matches and was a key part of the best defense in Italy this season. Now, Spalletti will rely on defenders like Alessandro Bastoni and Alessandro Buongiorno.

Although Napoli defender Buongiorno has also since withdrawn. Spalletti brought in Fiorentina defender Luca Ranieri as cover.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR ITALY?

Italy faces a difficult week ahead as they take on a direct rival in the World Cup qualifiers

The Azzurri face Norway on June 6, which will see Erling Haaland compete against his Manchester City teammate Federico Valverde.

As Norway sit top of the standings, Italy are placed second, two points behind their opponents and just one point ahead of Moldova, who they will face on June 9. The results will decide Italy’s qualifying fate, as a win will guarantee a spot in the 2026 World Cup.