Italy's older players know the 2026 World Cup is important. A whole generation of fans under 15 years old has never seen the Azzurri play in the tournament since 2014.

The Italian national team faces significant pressure as the 2026 World Cup approaches. Many of their experienced players believe this will be their final chance to play in the tournament. A large number of young Italian fans, specifically those under the age of 15, have no memory of their country competing in a World Cup. The last time the Azzurri took part was in 2014, when they were eliminated after a loss to Uruguay in Brazil. This long absence from the biggest football stage means a generation has grown up without seeing their heroes compete globally, adding to the importance of the upcoming competition for the squad.