Young Star Antonio Arena Urged To Pick Socceroos Instead Of Italy So He Can Actually Go To World Cups

WENDELL HUSSEY | Cadet | CONTACT

The hottest name in the Australian footballing world has this week been implored to think long and hard about a big decision looming in his future.

Antonio Arena, the man gracing many corners of Australian sporting social media for his first goal for Roma with his first touch, is now set to be at the centre of a tug of war for his national allegiance.

At 16 years, 11 months and 3 days, Arena was an 80th-minute substitute for the Serie A side Roma, and inside 2 minutes headed the ball past the goalkeeper and sent Stadio Olimpico wild.

It also sent social media wild, with Antonio becoming the 3rd youngest ever to score for the famous Italian club.

While of course the Italians are just assuming the young man would nominate to play for the Azzuri, it's hoped Antonio will defer to the Green and Gold.

Born and raised in Sydney, Arena came through the Marconi Stallions and Western Sydney Wanderers Academy before heading off to Italy.

And while Italy arguably have a slightly more decorated footballing history (including stealing the World Cup off us in 2006), the current ability of Australia to make World Cups is believed to be a big factor in where he lands.

The head of Football Australia has apparently invited Arena to meeting at Bar Italia in Leichhardt, and like any good elder statesman looking after talented young fellas who aren't 18 yet, has informed him he'll sort a couple of tins for him.

"Mate the Italians seem to like making World Cups as much as Dominos these days," laughed the boss of FA.

"If Antonio wants to shine on the big stage, he needs to come back down under."

More to come.