There is a possibility that Joel Obi will make Nigeria’s final squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. The 26-year-old midfielder revealed that had the opportunity to join the Italy’s national team while he was 15 but he snubbed the offer and waited to represent his “fatherland,” Nigeria.
“All my life, style was in Italian football,” he told Kwese Sports. “When I was 14 or 15 years, I had the opportunity to play for the Italian youth team but I waited because I believe I am from Nigeria and I have to play for my fatherland.
“Finally I got the call from the Super Eagles and I was very happy. I was only focused on Nigerian national team.”
Obi who made his international debut for Nigeria in 2011, started both of Nigeria’s friendlies against Poland and Serbia last month.
The Torino midfielder who has played Italian clubs including Inter Milan and Parma also discussed his favourite language.
“With my family we try to speak Igbo at home but I prefer speaking Italian,” he said. “When I get to Nigeria I speak broken English and with my Igbo friends I prefer to speak Igbo.”
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