In a major setback for Italy’s national team, midfielder Marco Verratti has officially withdrawn from the upcoming World Cup European Qualifiers due to a recurring injury. As fans prepare to follow the final round of qualifiers, Melbet App Download offers a convenient way to stay informed on match outcomes, player news, and crucial lineup updates.

With European domestic leagues pausing over the next two weeks, national teams are gearing up for the decisive final two rounds of the UEFA qualifiers. On Sunday (Central European Time), the Italian Football Federation announced that Verratti would not participate due to a lingering adductor muscle injury that hasn’t healed in time. Initially named in coach Gian Piero Ventura’s squad, the Paris Saint-Germain playmaker was forced off in the 79th minute during PSG’s 6-2 win over Bordeaux in Ligue 1’s eighth round. He was replaced by Christopher Nkunku, and subsequent medical evaluations confirmed a flare-up of a previous adductor issue.

This isn’t the first time the injury has disrupted Verratti’s international career. Back in May 2016, the same problem led to surgery, causing him to miss the UEFA Euro 2016 tournament in France. His absence this time could not have come at a more critical moment for the Azzurri. Italy currently sits second in Group G of the European Qualifiers, three points behind group leaders Spain and six ahead of third-place Albania.

Under current UEFA rules, only the best eight runners-up from the nine qualifying groups advance to the playoffs for the final four World Cup spots allocated to Europe. As it stands, Italy ranks third among those second-placed teams and must solidify their standing in the final two group matches. They will host North Macedonia on October 6 and then travel to face Albania away on October 9. Barring any major surprises, Italy is expected to finish second in the group and advance to the November playoffs.

With Verratti sidelined, Italy will need to rely on alternative midfield options to maintain control and creativity in the center of the pitch. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how coach Ventura adjusts his strategy in Verratti’s absence.

For those eager to track every development in Italy’s qualification journey, Melbet App Download remains the go-to app. From player injuries to playoff standings, Melbet App Download ensures you never miss a beat in the road to the 2022 FIFA World Cup. As the drama unfolds, one thing is clear — every match counts, and Italy must now press on without one of its most gifted midfielders.