Australia adds Serie A attacker Volpato to World Cup preliminary squad

Australia has made a significant move in its preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup by including talented attacker Cristian Volpato in its preliminary squad. Volpato, currently playing for Sassuolo in Italy's Serie A, has been called up to the team's training camp in Los Angeles.

However, Volpato's official participation in the tournament hinges on final authorization from FIFA. This is due to his previous representation of Italy at the Under-19 and Under-20 levels. Football Australia has received a letter of authorization from the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), and the case now awaits FIFA's final ratification.

Volpato, born in Sydney, developed his early footballing skills in Australia before moving to Europe. While he has represented Italy's youth teams, his Australian roots make him a potential key addition for the Socceroos. He will be allowed to train with the squad in the United States while the administrative process is finalized.

The Australian squad will undergo preparation with two international friendlies: a match against co-host Mexico at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena on May 30, followed by a game against Switzerland in San Diego on June 6. Australia's World Cup campaign begins on June 13 in Vancouver against Turkey. The final squad of up to 26 players must be submitted to FIFA by June 1.