Amauri makes decision

Amauri makes decision
Monday 9 March, 2009

Juventus striker Amauri has finally decided whether to play for Italy or Brazil after months of speculation.

The 28-year-old was recently given the all clear to apply for Italian citizenship after his wife Cynthia was confirmed as an Italian.

Once Amauri receives an Italian passport he will be eligible to play for Italy, having never been called up by Brazil, his home country.

“I have made my decision,” Amauri told La Gazzetta dello Sport. “I will let you know about my future soon.”

The former Palermo attacker, who has suffered something of a scoring drought since January, denied the whole affair had been a distraction.

“No, it's only coincidental,” he said. “Those were moments that every striker goes through. Anyway, it will take about six months to obtain the citizenship.”

Amauri's flip-flopping between Italy and Brazil has angered some. Milan midfielder Gennaro Gattuso recently said he would not welcome Amauri in Azzurro.

“He has his own opinion,” Amauri explained. “Others hopefully have a different one. But it's clear that if I play for Italy it will not be for my career, but because of a feeling I have.

“I have been in Italy for 10 years, this country has given me everything and to wear the Italy colours would be a way to repay it.”

Amauri has enjoyed a magnificent debut season for Juventus, scoring 14 goals in 36 appearances for the Bianconeri in all competitions.

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