FIFA World Cup 2026: Cristian Volpato joins Australia squad after Italy eligibility switch

Cristian Volpato has been added to Australia’s World Cup squad days after confirming an eligibility change from Italy. Coach Tony Popovic named the Sydney-born 22-year-old in a 26-man group announced on Monday (June 1), Australian time.

The call-up came four years after Volpato turned down a Socceroos invitation before the 2022 tournament.

Popovic also selected 17 players for a first World Cup, including striker Tete Yengi. Skipper Mat Ryan, who has 104 international caps, and veteran Mathew Leckie were picked for a fourth World Cup. That matched the Australian record shared by Tim Cahill and Mark Milligan.

Australia World Cup squad selection explained

Popovic said several considerations shaped the final list, and some choices were tough. "A range of factors has gone into selecting this final World Cup squad, Popovic said in a statement. Some difficult decisions had to be made... but its also a credit to all the players involved who worked extremely hard during an extended and challenging pre-camp. Id like to acknowledge the players who contributed to our direct World Cup qualification but are not part of this squad.\"

Volpato previously played for Italy’s Under-21 side but remained eligible to switch under FIFA rules. That was because Volpato never appeared in a competitive senior match for Italy. Italy did not qualify for the World Cup being co-hosted by the U.S., Mexico and Canada.

Australia World Cup warmup games and Group D fixtures

Volpato joined the Socceroos camp in Los Angeles on the weekend. The arrival came too late for the 1-0 World Cup warmup defeat to Mexico at Pasadena. Australia will play another warmup on Saturday against Switzerland at San Diego before the Group D matches begin.

Australia’s Group D campaign starts against Turkey at Vancouver on June 13. The team then faces the U.S. at Seattle six days later. The final group match is against Paraguay at Santa Clara on June 25.

Australia World Cup squad list for 26-man group

The squad announcement confirmed a mix of established figures and new tournament selections. Volpato’s inclusion followed the eligibility switch and late arrival in camp. Australia now heads into the final warmup against Switzerland before opening Group D against Turkey on June 13.

With inputs from PTI