Cristian Volpato to Represent Australia in World Cup Bid

Former Italy U21 forward Cristian Volpato has chosen to represent Australia in the upcoming World Cup. Despite previously rejecting Australia, the Sydney-born player is now eligible to join the Socceroos, having never played for Italy's senior team.

Sydney-born forward Cristian Volpato, formerly of Italy's U21 squad, is set to switch his national allegiance to Australia for the upcoming World Cup. Football Australia announced this transition ahead of the final squad list, which will be finalized this Monday. Volpato is participating in the Socceroos' training camp in Los Angeles.

The 22-year-old Sassuolo player's eligibility under FIFA's rules allows him to change allegiances since he has not played for Italy's senior national team. Confirming this move, the Australian soccer federation has obtained a crucial release letter from the Italian Football Federation, facilitating FIFA's approval of the switch. Australia's World Cup journey begins with a match against Turkey, followed by games against the United States and Paraguay in June.