Mancini invites two Nigeria-eligible players to Italian training camp

After their strong seasons in the Serie A and Serie B, Roberto Mancini has invited two Nigerian players to the Italian training camp

Mancini has invited Udinese wing-back Destiny Udogie and Cremonese defender Caleb Okoli to the Italian training camp between May 24th and 26th.

Udogie has had a solid season in the Serie A where he has scored four goals and assisted two in 34 league games this season.

Born in Italy, the player who is owned by Hellas Verona and is on loan at Udinese previously stated his desire to play for the Azzurri.

“I was born in Italy so I feel more Italian. I have played in all the Italian youth selections and I want to reach the senior national team. Serie A must give more opportunities to young people. The clubs must allow the boys to express their quality. We are one. leagues where youngsters are given less chance. A change is needed,” the player had said in an interview on Italian Football Podcast. 

https://twitter.com/azzurri_en/status/1527673306710687744?s=21&t=s5URD_r175o1mWgYhCZsuw

Like 19-year old Udogie, Cremonese defender, Okoli has helped the Serie B side to earn promotion to the Italian top flight. The 20-year old is spending his second year out on loan from Atalanta after playing at SPAL last season.

Mancini invited two groups of players as he looks to build a new generation for the Azzurri, and hopes to start with picking young players to join the national team.

The players will be observed at the Coverciano for three days and the groups comprise some of the best young players currently in Italian football and those playing outside Italy but holding Italian passports.