Cristian Volpato is set to join the Socceroos' training squad in Los Angeles ahead of a friendly against Mexico, in a dramatic switch of allegiance from Italy to Australia. The 22-year-old attacker, born and raised in Sydney, had previously turned down the opportunity to represent his country of birth four years ago but has now changed his mind.
Football Australia is awaiting confirmation from FIFA to ratify the formalities of Volpato's switch, after lodging all requisite paperwork. Volpato represented Italy at Under-19, Under-20 and Under-21 levels, with his last appearance in March 2025. He snubbed multiple previous approaches, including an invitation from then-coach Graham Arnold ahead of the 2022 World Cup.
Australia's persistence appears to have paid off, with Volpato not included in Italy's squad for upcoming friendlies, while the four-time World Cup winners failed to qualify for a third successive tournament. Socceroos coach Tony Popovic must name his 26-player World Cup squad by 1 June, and Volpato is now in contention, especially after first-choice attacker Riley McGree was ruled out with a hamstring injury.
Volpato began his senior career at Roma under José Mourinho, making 14 appearances and scoring two goals. He moved to Sassuolo in 2023, where he has played 72 times, scoring seven goals and providing 11 assists, helping the club return to Serie A as champions of the second tier. He scored twice and added four assists in 24 Serie A appearances this season.
The Socceroos now have 30 players in their train-on unit, with Popovic needing to reduce the number to 26. Volpato will not feature against Mexico on 31 May but is firmly in the frame for a full international debut against Turkey on 14 June.
