Cristian Volpato is selected for Australia’s FIFA World Cup squad just days after confirming a switch of national eligibility from Italy. ABC Australia reports that Volpato says he was “a bit too scared” to make the change earlier. The new eligibility decision arrives after he previously declined an invitation to join Australia for the 2022 tournament, according to multiple outlets.
Business Standard and Stuff.co.nz say coach Tony Popovic includes Volpato in the 26-man squad announced Monday (Australian time), bringing the 22-year-old into Australia’s World Cup setup shortly after his confirmation of eligibility. The reports also note that Volpato is named alongside other players in the squad that includes experienced figures such as goalkeeper Mat Ryan and midfielder Mathew Leckie, both selected for a fourth World Cup.
Business Standard quotes Popovic saying the final squad reflects multiple factors and that some difficult decisions were made following an extended, challenging pre-camp. Winnipeg Free Press similarly focuses on the timing of Volpato’s selection shortly after his allegiance switch.
