22-Year-Old Midfielder Chooses Australia for World Cup

A promising young midfielder born in rural New South Wales is coming home to wear the green and gold at the 2026 World Cup.

Cristian Volpato, 22, has officially switched his international allegiance from Italy to Australia, giving Socceroos coach Tony Popovic a major boost just days before finalizing his World Cup roster. The decision marks a complete turnaround for the player who four years ago declined to represent Australia at the Qatar World Cup, choosing instead to pursue his Italian dream.

Born in Camperdown, New South Wales, Volpato moved to Italy as a teenager and signed with Roma in 2020. He climbed through Italy's youth ranks, representing the Azzurri at under-19, under-20, and under-21 levels. But the senior call-up he hoped for never came.

Now playing for Serie A side Sassuolo, Volpato has tallied two goals and four assists in 24 league appearances this season. His return to the Australian fold follows a personal visit from Popovic and assistant coach Paul Okon in March, when the young player expressed openness to representing his birth country.

"We're not selling the shirt," Popovic said after that meeting. "There were no ultimatums or any pressure, it was a discussion." The coach emphasized respecting the difficult decision young players face when choosing between national teams.

Football Australia has submitted all required paperwork to FIFA and received a release letter from the Italian Football Federation. Clearance is expected in time for Volpato to join the 26-player World Cup squad, which must be submitted by June 1.

The Bright Side

Volpato's decision shows that sometimes the path home takes a detour. While he once looked elsewhere for his international future, his journey through Italian soccer has made him a stronger, more experienced player who can now contribute to Australia's World Cup campaign. His willingness to reconsider demonstrates maturity and a genuine connection to his birthplace.

The timing gives Popovic just 48 hours to evaluate the midfielder before finalizing his squad. Australia faces Mexico in Los Angeles this Saturday and Switzerland next week in their final warmup matches before the tournament begins.

For a young man who had to choose between two countries he calls home, Cristian Volpato has chosen Australia.