

FolioPitch.com – 14 October 2026 | Paolo Di Canio fears Tresoldi has already chosen between Italy and Germany, and the former striker’s concerns are echoing across Italian football after Nicolò Tresoldi‘s stunning hat-trick for Club Brugge against Inter Milan in the Champions League. The 22-year-old’s performance has intensified the tug-of-war between the two national teams, with Di Canio suggesting the decision may already be made.
Tresoldi, born in Italy but raised in Germany, became only the second player after Gareth Bale to score three goals in a single Champions League game against Inter. His heroics helped Club Brugge secure a dramatic 4-3 victory at the Stadio San Siro on Tuesday, a result that has left Inter’s European campaign in jeopardy.
The striker’s dual citizenship has made him a target for both Italy and Germany. He has represented Germany at youth level and is set to play for them at the U21 European Championship next summer. Despite his Italian roots, Tresoldi has consistently stated he will only decide his senior international future after that tournament.
In a post-match interview with Sky Sport Italia, Tresoldi confirmed he has spoken with both Italy coach Roberto Mancini and Germany’s Jurgen Klopp. “I always speak Italian at home; I was born in Italy too. We’ll see,” he said. He also spoke passionately about the U21 Euros: “I am enjoying myself with the Germany Under-21 side, we have a European Championship to play, it’s a trophy my Dad won with Italy, so it’s a target for me. Then we’ll see what happens.”
However, his words did little to reassure Italian pundits. Sky Sport Italia journalist Marco Bucciantini was blunt: “I think he’s already chosen, and he’s chosen Germany.” Di Canio, a former Juventus, Lazio, Milan and West Ham striker, agreed. “When you hear him say that he wants to win the U21 Euros with Germany. It was a promise, true, but he has already chosen,” Di Canio said. “This is not the right time [to say it], but it’s clear he’s already chosen.”
The fear that Di Canio fears Tresoldi has already chosen between Italy and Germany is not just about one player. It reflects a broader anxiety in Italian football about losing top talent to rival nations. Tresoldi’s hat-trick against Inter showcased his immense potential, and his decision could shape the attacking options for both countries for years to come.
Italy, still rebuilding after failing to qualify for the 2022 World Cup, cannot afford to miss out on a striker of Tresoldi’s caliber. Germany, meanwhile, sees him as a key part of their future after a disappointing 2022 campaign. The U21 Euros will be a crucial stage for Tresoldi to showcase his abilities, but it may also serve as a farewell to Italian hopes.
Tresoldi’s father, who won the U21 Euros with Italy, adds a sentimental layer to the saga. The young striker has often spoken of his pride in his father’s achievements and his desire to emulate them. Yet, his emotional connection to Germany, where he grew up and developed as a player, appears strong.
As the debate rages, Di Canio fears Tresoldi has already chosen between Italy and Germany, and the evidence seems to support that fear. The striker’s joyous celebration after his hat-trick and his commitment to the German U21 cause suggest his heart may already be with Die Mannschaft. Italian fans can only wait and hope, but the signs are not encouraging.
In conclusion, Nicolò Tresoldi’s international future remains uncertain, but the comments from Di Canio and other pundits indicate that Italy may be fighting a losing battle. The U21 Euros will be the final audition, but by then, the decision may already be set in stone. For Italy, the fear that Di Canio fears Tresoldi has already chosen between Italy and Germany is a painful reminder of the challenges they face in retaining their best talents.
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