The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has announced that Fiorentina striker Roberto Piccoli has been called up to the national team for the first time. Piccoli will replace Lazio winger Mattia Zaccagni, who has been sidelined due to an adductor injury.
Zaccagni will miss Italy`s upcoming matches against Estonia and Israel during the October international break. The Lazio star`s injury was confirmed by his club, who stated that he will undergo further medical examinations on Monday.
Piccoli, who joined Fiorentina from Cagliari in a €25 million transfer this summer, has made six appearances for his new club this season, scoring twice. The 22-year-old striker is a product of Atalanta`s youth academy.
This call-up marks the third debut for Italy`s national team this month. Piccoli joins his Fiorentina teammate Hans Nicolussi Caviglia and Bologna winger Nicolò Cambiaghi as newcomers to the Azzurri squad.
Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso had previously included Zaccagni in his starting lineup for the match against Estonia in September, but the Lazio winger did not feature in the subsequent game against Israel.
The national team will be looking to build on their recent performances as they continue their qualification campaign for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With these fresh additions to the squad, Gattuso aims to strengthen Italy`s attacking options and maintain their competitive edge on the international stage.