Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.
Cristian Volpato Socceroos selection has received strong backing from Australian football legend John Aloisi after the winger completed a late switch in international allegiance before Australia’s World Cup squad announcement. Volpato, who previously represented Italy at youth level, was included in Tony Popovic’s 26 player squad after committing to Australia less than 72 hours before selection. The decision matters because it has sparked debate among supporters and former players over loyalty, selection, and Australia’s chances heading into the tournament.
The 22 year old Sydney born winger currently plays for Serie A club Sassuolo and had previously resisted approaches from Australia while pursuing opportunities with Italy.
His inclusion came at the expense of several familiar names, with fan favourite Martin Boyle among those to miss out.
Aloisi backs Volpato decision
John Aloisi, who understands the experience of balancing Australian and Italian football identities, strongly defended Volpato’s decision.
Speaking at a promotional event on Thursday, the former Socceroos striker said the criticism surrounding Volpato’s selection was misplaced.
Aloisi pointed directly to Volpato’s quality and current club level as justification for his inclusion.
“He’s playing Serie A. I think it’s great,” Aloisi said.
“He’s an Australian. I know there’s been a lot of talk about whether he should have been selected or not. I think it’s brilliant that he’s there.”
Aloisi also expressed satisfaction that Volpato had ultimately committed to representing Australia.
Why Volpato previously rejected Australia
Volpato’s relationship with the national team has been closely watched since he declined opportunities under former Socceroos coach Graham Arnold before the 2022 World Cup.
At the time, the young attacker chose to focus on establishing himself in European football rather than international commitments.
With grandparents from both sides of his family originating from Italy, Volpato qualified to represent either nation.
Aloisi suggested the player’s earlier decisions should be viewed within the context of a young footballer trying to establish himself at elite level.
“I understand where he was coming from at the start, because when you’re first trying to make your way in Europe, you don’t want too many distractions,” Aloisi explained.
He also reflected on the unique experience of growing up with both Australian and Italian influences.
“I know what it’s like to be in Italy as an Italian Australian. You’re Australian, so he would feel that.”
Tete Yengi earns surprise World Cup opportunity
Another major talking point from Tony Popovic squad selection was the inclusion of uncapped striker Tete Yengi.
Despite playing no role in Australia qualifying campaign or recent friendlies, Yengi secured a place in the World Cup squad.
Aloisi had firsthand experience against the striker earlier this year when Yengi scored twice against his team during an AFC Champions League fixture.
“We played against him in the Champions League this year and he scored a couple of goals against my team,” Aloisi said.
Following that performance, Aloisi told Yengi he believed the striker could push into national team contention.
The former Socceroos forward believes Yengi brings something different to Australia attacking options.
“He’s someone who’s very tall. He’s hard to pinpoint how you can mark him and what you can do against him.”
Unknown factor could help Australia
Aloisi suggested Yengi lack of international experience may actually create an advantage for Australia.
Opponents preparing tactical plans may struggle to analyse players with limited national team exposure.
“It’s a risk, but you have to take risks as a coach and I’m sure that Pop knows what he’s doing,” Aloisi said.
The comments reflect growing confidence that Popovic has prioritised versatility and unpredictability in his squad construction.
Socceroos embrace underdog status
Australia enters the World Cup facing significant scepticism from overseas commentators.
The Socceroos group stage opponents include the United States, Turkey, and Paraguay.
Some American pundits have already publicly predicted Australia will struggle when they face the United States in Seattle later this month.
Former United States representative Alexi Lalas predicted Australia would struggle to score goals and maintain possession.
Rather than seeing criticism as a negative, Aloisi believes it provides motivation.
“We love to be the underdogs,” he said.
“We love people underestimating us.”
Australia will complete preparations with a final World Cup warm up match against Switzerland on Sunday before attention turns fully toward the tournament.
For Volpato, the spotlight now shifts away from nationality questions and toward performances on football’s biggest stage.