Player changes selection at the last minute and should be called up for the World Cup

Former Italy under-20 player Cristian Volpato has decided to play for Australia and will join the Socceroos' training period in Los Angeles before the World Cup, Australia announced this Friday (29).

The 22-year-old attacking midfielder, who has dual citizenship and was born and raised in Sydney, plays for Italian Serie A side Sassuolo.

Volpato had turned down the opportunity to play for Australia at the 2022 World Cup. This year, a new attempt by coach Tony Popovic appeared to go nowhere after the player said he was happy to "wait for Italy".

Australia reported that it received a letter of release from the Italian federation and sent FIFA the necessary documentation for the "change of association", making Volpato's decision to leave Italy for Australia official.

"As soon as approval is given, Volpato will be able to officially represent the Socceroos," the organization said in a statement.

The news comes just days after Australia lost midfielder Riley McGree for the tournament due to a thigh muscle injury suffered while playing for England's Middlesbrough.

Tony Popovic will announce on Monday (1st) the final list of 26 players for the World Cup, played between June 11 and July 19 in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Australia will face Türkiye, the United States and Paraguay in the group stage of the competition. The debut will be against the Turks, in Vancouver, on June 13th.

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Source: CNN