FIFA World Cup 2026: Cristian Volpato switches allegiance to Socceroos from Italy
Fri 29 May 2026 at 5:42pm
Cristian Volpato has switched allegiance from Italy to Australia on the eve of the 2026 World Cup. (Getty Images: Luca Amedeo Bizzarri)
Socceroos coach Tony Popovic has been handed a boost just days out from naming his 2026 World Cup squad, with Cristian Volpato switching his allegiance from Italy to Australia.
Volpato turned his back on Australia four years ago, declining the opportunity to play for the Socceroos at the Qatar World Cup, citing his desire to play for Italy.
He had represented the Azzurri at the under-19, -20 and -21 level, but never received a full call-up.
In a statement, Football Australia said it had lodged "all requisite paperwork to FIFA" and was awaiting clearance from the governing body.
It also said it had received a release letter from the Italian Football Federation.
Volpato, who plays for Italian top-flight side Sassuolo, was born in Camperdown in New South Wales and was signed by Roma in 2020.
He moved to Sassuolo in 2023 and this season has scored two goals and provided four assists in 24 league appearances, though he has only started 11 games.
His shock move follows a trip by Popovic and assistant coach Paul Okon to speak with the 22-year-old in March.
Popovic had previously stated he would not beg unsure players to select the Socceroos and said the visit to Italy came after overtures from Volpato about committing to Australia.
"We're not selling the shirt," Popovic said at the time.
"There were no ultimatums or any pressure, it was a discussion, and if he wants to play for Australia, whether that's, let's say, three months, six months, a year … they're young men, you have to respect the decisions they have to make.
"He's indicated he's open to the idea, now the rest is just for him to decide."
The Socceroos boss had already whittled his potential World Cup squad down to 29 players, with uncapped striker Tete Yengi and Awer Mabil among eight players joining those already established in the US on Wednesday.
Australia will submit its 26-player squad by June 1, meaning Popovic will need to evaluate Volpato and decide on him in just 48 hours, though the late nature of his inclusion suggests he is likely to be selected.
The Socceroos play Mexico in Los Angeles on Saturday, local time, and then face Switzerland in San Diego next week in their final hit-outs ahead of the World Cup.
It appears unlikely Volpato will feature against Mexico.
Earlier this year, one of Australia's brightest talents, Adrian Segecic, switched his allegiance from the Socceroos to Croatia, after featuring for Australia at youth level.