Italy Boss Marcello Lippi Drops Francesco Totti & Amauri Hints

Marcello Lippi’s interview with Italian magazine L’Espresso hit the shelves on Friday, and the Italy boss gave other significant indications about the 23-man party who will travel to the World Cup finals in South Africa next summer.

Some excerpts of the interview were leaked on Thursday, and Lippi seemed to rule out once and for all a rethink about Sampdoria ace Antonio Cassano, but Roma captain Francesco Totti and Juventus striker Amauri stand more than a chance of getting on the plane.

Totti has recently admitted he could come out of international retirement to boost Italy’s hopes of retaining the title next summer, and Lippi said, “There is mutual esteem between us. But the important thing now is that he plays with serenity.”

Brazilian-born Amauri is set to gain Italian citizenship next year, and the 29-year-old is said to be a strong candidate to make Lippi’s squad.

“He is not Italian for now, but when he is, I will talk and opinions will change…” concluded Lippi.