Cristian Volpato, a 22‑year‑old midfielder born in Sydney, has switched allegiance from Italy to Australia ahead of the 2026 World Cup. After joining Roma’s youth setup in 2020 and moving to Serie A side Sassuolo in 2023, he earned Italy youth caps but remains eligible to switch. Football Australia now holds a release letter and has filed the paperwork with FIFA.

Volpato’s decision comes after Italy failed to qualify for a third straight World Cup, leaving manager Gennaro Gattuso and FIGC president Gabriele Gravina out of office. The midfielder declined a 2022 Qatar call‑up to focus on club duties, saying a rushed choice could have been premature. Now, he will train with Popovic’s Socceroos squad in Los Angeles before the final roster is set on June 1.

Volpato, who holds dual citizenship, will participate in a training camp that could shape the squad’s midfield options. His switch adds depth to Australia’s plans for a group featuring Turkey, the United States and Paraguay. The move also signals a shift in player allegiance dynamics ahead of the tournament.

With the Socceroos set to open their campaign on June 14, Volpato’s inclusion could prove decisive in a group that has already seen the cancellation of key players like Riley McGree. His experience in Serie A and youth internationals gives Australia a tactical edge as they aim to advance beyond the group stage.