Multiple associations chase Udinese jewel Matteo Palma

The 18-year-old centre-back Matteo Palma is taking his first steps in professional football at Udinese Calcio. After a single appearance in Serie A and the Coppa Italia he started promisingly, but a muscle injury has kept him off the pitch since then and is expected to keep him out for several weeks.

Multiple national associations in the running

The youngster has already been nominated for the DFB youth and has made 13 appearances for the German youth teams. Previously he played for Italy and could still be eligible for Austria and Cameroon because of his parents. Through his German mother he holds a German passport, and his father gives him an Italian passport.

In an interview with transfer insider Gianluca Di Marzio, Palma emphasized: “I am in contact with both national teams, but I have not decided yet. The most important thing for me now is to recover from my injury and play as much as possible.”

Mancini watches Tresoldi: the choice between Italy and Germany postponed

He added that there are contacts with Italy, Germany and Austria: “Contacts with the associations? There have been some with Italy, but also with Germany and Austria.” At the same time he pointed out that he is currently injured and cannot accept any offer: “However, it is not the right time to accept any of these offers – I am injured.”

Under Kosta Runjaic, Palma is being coached by Udinese, as a recent photo shows, depicting him eligible to play for four countries. The caption emphasizes his multiple nationalities and the ongoing rehabilitation.

Udinese seals the deal: David Alaba ready to wear the Italian shirt