Milan (AFP) – Lazio defender Luiz Felipe has rejected a call-up to Italy’s Under-21 squad saying he wants to pursue his international career with Brazil.
The 21-year-old Brazil-born player moved to Italy in 2016 and was called up by coach Luigi Di Biagio for friendlies against Austria and Croatia after recently receiving dual nationality.
“After a long period of reflection, necessary for such a delicate choice, despite being flattered to be able to wear the prestigious shirt of the Italian national team, I’ve decided to compete for the Selecao jersey,” the defender said on Instagram.
“Football is, above all, a matter of heart and feeling, and I’m sure my decision will be understood.”
Luiz Felipe has played for the last two seasons with Lazio and also scored his first goal in Italy against Bologna last December.
He had competed with Brazil’s Under-20 side.
200+ Channels With Sports & News
- Starting price: $33/mo. for fubo Latino Package
- Watch Premier League, Women’s World Cup, Euro 2024 & Gold Cup
The New Home of MLS
- Price: $14.99/mo. for MLS Season Pass
- Watch every MLS game including playoffs & Leagues Cup
Many Sports & ESPN Originals
- Price: $10.99/mo. (or get ESPN+, Hulu & Disney+ for $14.99/mo.)
- Features Bundesliga, LaLiga, Championship, & FA Cup
2,000+ soccer games per year
- Price: $5.99/mo
- Features Champions League, Serie A, Europa League & Brasileirāo
175 Premier League Games & PL TV
- Starting price: $5.99/mo. for Peacock Premium
- Watch 175 exclusive EPL games per season