Milan, 24 April (LaPresse) – Did you go too far with your proposal to FIFA to replace Iran with Italy at the next World Cup? “No, absolutely not. I simply suggested this solution to President Trump, who loves Italy very much, and to King Gianni (Gianni Infantino, ed.). It will be up to them to decide.” This was stated by Paolo Zampolli, US President Donald Trump’s special envoy for global partnerships, in an interview with the ‘Corriere della Sera’. Is there any chance of success? “I’m keeping my fingers crossed like everyone else. My heart is with the Azzurri and they deserve it. I went to the US with the American dream and I am convinced that we can dream of Italy taking part in the World Cup to be held on American soil,‘ he added. Zampolli then emphasised, following the comments by Sports Minister Andrea Abodi, who stated that a repêchage for Italy ’is not possible and not appropriate, because qualification is earned on the pitch": ‘I understand and agree 100% with his position as minister, but I dare to think that perhaps we share the same dream when we go to sleep.’ Trump’s special envoy, therefore, concludes: ‘In my personal vision of sports diplomacy, it would be a great victory for Italian fans and for those all over the world because the World Cup cannot be played without Italy.’
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