Michael Folorunsho: Nigeria Eligible Star Provides Dodgy Response to Question of Playing for Italy

Michael Folorunsho: Nigeria Eligible Star Provides Dodgy Response to Question of Playing for Italy

Ero Samson
updated at March 11, 2024 at 12:13 PM
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  • The Super Eagles are actively seeking to recruit a host of Nigeria-eligible players
  • Michael Folorunsho is one of the players reported to have caught the eye of Nigeria
  • The 26-year-old recently reacted to a question about his dream of playing for Italy

Michael Folorunsho is high up on the list of Nigeria-eligible players to have caught the attention of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

The 26-year-old, who has been in sizzling form since the start of the season, again scored a long-range screamer in Hellas Verona's win against Leece.

The versatile midfielder, who is yet to decide on his international allegiance, has attracted interest from both Nigeria and Italy.

Michael Folorunsho, Serie A, Nigeria, Italy, Leece, Hellas Verona
Michael Folorunsho during the Serie A match between US Lecce and Hellas Verona FC. Image: Gabriele Maricchiolo.
Source: Getty Images

Reports from OwnGoalNigeria indicated that the Nigerian football authorities had engaged in discussions with Folorunsho regarding the possibility of representing Nigeria. However, another report from Tutto Napoli suggested that Italy's coach, Luciano Spalletti, had hinted at giving the midfielder a call-up for the Euro.

Surprisingly, Folorunsho was not included in Nigeria's squad for the March International window, fueling speculation about his potential switch to Italy.

Nevertheless, amidst the burgeoning speculations, the midfielder has offered his response to the prospect of donning the Azzurri jersey.

Folorunsho speaks on playing for Italy

Following his decisive goal against Lecce, Folorunsho was asked about his aspirations to play for Italy at the Euro tournament.

However, Folorunsho refrained from labelling it a dream to play for Italy. Instead, he expressed satisfaction at being recognised by Spalletti and emphasised his approach of progressing in his career one step at a time.

"I've always taken things step by step; I've played in Serie C, Serie B, and this is my first year in Serie A," Folorunsho stated, as reported by Tutto Napoli. "Just hearing the national coach say kind words is a significant achievement."

While Folorunsho was not included in Nigeria's team roster for their March international window, it remains uncertain whether Spalletti will select the spirited midfielder for his squad.

Folorunsho scores goal of the season contender

In another report, Sports Brief stated that Folorunsho scored a goal-of-the-season contender in Hellas Verona’s draw against Juventus.

The midfielder converted a sublime volley from the edge of the 18-yard box, leaving goalkeeper, Wojciech Szczesny, with no chance of saving it.

Additionally, the 26-year-old delivered a beautiful assist for his teammate, Tijjani Noslin, during the match.

Authors
Ero Samson photo
Ero Samson
Samson Ero is a sports journalist with a track record of over five years in the Nigerian media industry. He graduated from Nigerian Institute of Journalism (2021-2023).
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Nigeria Football Federation (NFF)