Mancini: ‘We hope Tresoldi will feel 51 per cent Italian’ next summer

BRAUNSCHWEIG, GERMANY - MARCH 27: Nicolo Tresoldi of Germany inspects the pitch prior to the UEFA Under21 EURO Qualifier between Germany U21 and Northern Ireland U21 at Eintracht Stadion on March 27, 2026 in Braunschweig, Germany. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)

Roberto Mancini confirms Nicolò Tresoldi will not make a decision on international football until June 2027. ‘Hopefully by then he’ll feel 51 per cent Italian and 49 per cent German.’

The talent turned 22 last month and is therefore still eligible for the European Under-21 Championship, scheduled for June 2027.

He was born in Italy to Italian parents, but moved to Germany as a baby and was raised there, playing for the Germans at every youth level.

Although Italy have made more than one approach, Tresoldi is kicking the can down the road.

Tresoldi keeping Italy and Germany waiting

“We talked to him, he said that at this moment he cannot decide because he gave his word to the Under-21 coach that he’d play for Germany at the European Championship in June,” confirmed Italy coach Mancini in today’s press conference.

“He said that he feels 50 per cent Italian and 50 per cent German. Hopefully by June he’ll feel 51 per cent Italian and 49 per cent German.”

It is certainly understandable that the Germany Under-21 side is not prepared to let Tresoldi go, seeing as he scored 12 goals in just 24 games for them, along with two assists.

Until he makes a competitive appearance for a senior side, then the door remains open for him to switch nationality.

Italy might be helped by the fact the striker moved to Club Brugge last summer, so is away from both countries.

Tresoldi scored five goals in nine games so far this season already, after netting 23 in 58 games last term.