Nigerian born youngster Destiny Udogie has stated that he intends to switch international allegiances.
The 19-year-old who was born in Verona, Italy has been one of the highly rated youngsters in the Italian Serie A.
In an interview with journalists Carlo Garganese and Nima Tavalley on the The Italian Football Podcast, Udogie revealed that he has decided to play for the Azzurri.
In the interview, Udogie was asked about his eligibility to represent both countries.
The youngster responded by revealing his decision to play for Italy rather than the country of his parents.
He said, “I was born in Italy, so I feel more Italian. I grew up playing with the young players in Italy, I hope to reach the first team.”
Udogie who has played for the Italian youth team also talked about his ambition to represent the country at the 2024 UEFA European Football Championship.
He said, “Yes of course it’s an ambition, i just have to give more, to do my best every game, show my quality and it’s a big ambition.”
The youngster who was not born in Nigeria however identifies with legendary former Super Eagles captain Jay-Jay Okocha as his favourite player.
The left-back added, “I have been in Nigeria but I was very small. I was like two years old so i don’t remember much but I’ve been there.
“My favorite player of course is Okocha, every Nigerian player knows him.”
Udogie is a promising left-back who plays for Serie A club Udinese and is on loan from Hellas Verona.