Alessandro Circati chose Australia over Italy. His dad approves

Alessandro Circati, a 22-year-old standout player for the Socceroos, has navigated a unique international career path, choosing to represent Australia despite being born in Italy.

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At the start, they didn't understand his decision to play for Australia.

His father, Gianfranco Circati, revealed that Alessandro's decision initially raised eyebrows within their Italian family. "At the start, they didn't understand his decision to play for Australia," Gianfranco said. However, he explained that after conversations, his family came to realize that Alessandro's heart lies with Australia. "But after talking to him, obviously they realised that now, deep down, he's not Italian," Gianfranco added.

The Circati family moved to Perth, Australia, 20 years ago when Alessandro was just 16 months old. Gianfranco himself had a stint with Perth Glory during his playing career, which was primarily in Italy's second and third divisions. He now finds immense pleasure in watching his son achieve at the highest levels of the sport.

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But after talking to him, obviously they realised that now, deep down, he's not Italian.

Alessandro has enjoyed a successful start to his international career, becoming a key defender for the Socceroos. He has also played in Italy's top flight for Parma and attracted interest from major clubs like Atletico Madrid and Newcastle United following his World Cup performances. His father acknowledges the transfer rumors but emphasizes the need for focus on the World Cup.

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We moved 20 years ago. Ale was a 16-month-old.

Gianfranco reflected on his own playing career, stating, "I think this is the peak of your career. If you play a World Cup, I think it means you are being selected to be the best of your country. It's the dream of every soccer player, so I couldn't do it. I wasn't good enough. I tried to live that dream through my son."

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I think he gives a little bit more oomph to keep going what he's doing.