++ [ originally posted by mate ] ++
I think it's not so nice that Camo will play 4 Italy.
He will be useful cause he's the best in his role, but isn't nice 4 Italy and especially 4 Camo; cause if he play one match 4 Italy he will not be allowed to play 4 his nation anymore... I think he took this decision cause he was pressed by Moggi, that wanted to avoid him all the trips South American usually do 4 their NT.
IMO it is sad 4 Camo...
*cough*
Mauro Camoranesi has received his first call-up to the Italy squad and is already looking forward to the 2006 World Cup.
The Argentine-born winger has chosen the Azzurri and will make his debut in Wednesday’s friendly against Portugal, to be played at Genoa’s Stadio Ferraris.
“I hope it is the first step in a long career with the Azzurri shirt. A sportsman must set himself goals and the biggest achievement is the World Cup. I want to lift it for Italy.”
“I am enthusiastic about playing with the Azzurri shirt,” said the Juventus man.
“I made this decision two months ago, but it was never really a choice between Argentina and Italy as Coach Marcelo Bielsa never contacted me.”
“The decision was merely between accepting Giovanni Trapattoni’s call or not. I am happy to play here because it was Italian football that got the best out of my career,” he added.
This move has not pleased everyone and several players – including Francesco Toldo – have bitterly criticised his decision.
“I hope to find a good atmosphere in the Italy camp and will not let myself get involved with what the press has been saying about me.”
Gabriel Batistuta also commented that he would never have turned his back on his country.
“I respect everyone’s opinion, but when it comes down to it each man must make his own decisions.”
Nonetheless, Camoranesi did confirm that this has not been an easy time for him.
“Let us say it was a difficult decision to make, but at the same time it was easy because only one nation ever really wanted me. Don’t forget I only ever played football for one year in Argentina.”
Camoranesi made his professional debut with Mexican outfit Santos in 1996, then spent a year in the Argentine first division with Banfield before a return to Mexico with Cruz Azul.
He made the move to Italy in 2000-01 for Verona, the club that still owns half his contract, and hit the big time this season at Juventus.
“Trapattoni called me before the Winter break,” he revealed, “and I thought about it for a few days before accepting his offer. This is a golden opportunity for my career and I am enthusiastic about this new adventure.”
Source: Football Italia @ Feb 08, 2003