Insigne hopes Italy play 2026 World Cup game in Canada, but has one regret | OneFootball

Lorenzo Insigne hopes Italy will play a 2026 World Cup game in Canada but insists footballers playing abroad should be considered for the national team.

Italy international and Toronto FC winger Insigne hopes he will play for the national team again in the future.

“I don’t feel like a former player. Not yet. You never bid farewell to the national team, not even at 40 and I am just 33,” he told Repubblica.

Insigne won the 2020 Euros with the Azzurri, scoring a crucial goal against Belgium in the quarter-finals.

“I hear about lack of talent and perhaps, there’s some truth, but our history says otherwise,” he said.

“Italy has always had champions, and all it takes is to help them emerge, as they do abroad. Clubs must invest in the youths’ development, and coaches must give them space and trust, including in the national team.

Insigne hopes Italy play 2026 World Cup game in Canada, but has one regret

TORONTO, ON – JULY 23: Jonathan Osorio #21 of Toronto FC celebrates a goal with Lorenzo Insigne (R) #24 and teammates in an MLS game against Charlotte FC at BMO Field on July 23, 2022 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images)

“It’s happening already,” the ex-Napoli star continued.

“Luciano Spalletti is opening the doors to young players, and you can see some results already. The Nations League path has been excellent and it’s important ahead of the World Cup qualifiers.”

Italy didn’t participate in the last two editions of the World Cup and can’t miss another chance.

“We must return to the World Cup. Full stop,” argued Insigne.

“The national team must be involved and be protagonists, with the ambition of winning. We are Italy, four-time World Cup winners.

“I hope Italy will play a match in Toronto. Canada has a big and warm Italian community,” the 33-year-old added.

“I’ve been here for two years, and I am satisfied with my experience here, but I have one regret.

“Only in Italy are those who play far away automatically excluded from the national team, and I don’t understand why. The South Americans in Serie A can take 13-hour flights; why aren’t we allowed to do the same?

“I’m generally speaking, but I’ve already said I won’t retire. You always give your best to deserve it; otherwise, you will follow it as a fan.”