Italy forward Moise Kean will miss Tuesday’s decisive World Cup qualifier against Israel after failing to recover from an ankle injury, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) confirmed on Monday.
“Tests carried out this morning showed that the Fiorentina attacker hasn’t fully recovered from the injury suffered to his right ankle during Saturday’s match with Estonia,” the FIGC said in a statement.
Kean’s absence is a setback for coach Gennaro Gattuso, as the in-form 25-year-old has netted six goals in his last four international outings, including the opener in Italy’s 3–1 victory over Estonia. He was forced off early in that game after twisting his ankle.
Italy currently sit second in Group I — six points behind leaders Norway and three clear of third-placed Israel, with a game in hand on both. A win in Udine would guarantee the Azzurri at least a playoff spot, though topping the group — and earning direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico — remains a tough task.
Meanwhile, the build-up to the match has been overshadowed by security concerns. Up to 10,000 demonstrators are expected to join a pro-Palestinian march in Udine, protesting Israel’s ongoing military operations in Gaza.
Earlier this month, protesters had gathered at Italy’s training base in Florence, calling for the fixture to be canceled. Udine’s mayor, Alberto Felice De Toni, has since appealed for the game’s postponement, citing fears of possible unrest in the city.
Italy will conclude their qualifying campaign at home to Norway on November 16 at the San Siro.
