Volpato's Socceroos future now in doubt

The confirmation from NSW Police closes off any ambiguity about the initial finding. ESPN FC reports Volpato was fined following the positive result, though the exact circumstances of the test and the scale of any sanction beyond that fine have not been detailed publicly.

What happens next sits with Football Australia rather than the club. Sassuolo have not been reported as taking separate disciplinary action, and the governing body's decision will determine whether Volpato is considered for Socceroos selection in upcoming windows.

Why this matters for Tony Popovic

Volpato has been a fringe but useful option in Tony Popovic's squad plans as Australia continue their push through World Cup qualifying commitments. Losing access to him, even temporarily, tightens the pool of attacking options available for selection, particularly with the squad already navigating a packed international calendar.

There is no indication yet of how long any exclusion might last, or whether Football Australia will issue a formal statement on process and timeline. Until that comes, Volpato's situation remains open: fined, confirmed, and waiting on a governing body ruling that could shape his next several call-ups.

Football Australia's next steps

Neither Volpato nor representatives on his behalf have issued a public statement as of the confirmation, and Football Australia has not set out a public timeline for its decision. The governing body could impose a short exclusion from selection, or open a longer disciplinary process that runs alongside the rest of the season. Until it rules, Volpato's Socceroos picture stays unresolved.