Former Italia Coach Marcello Lippi says that if Cristiano Ronaldo or Messi had Italian relatives, the oriundi controversy would not subsist.

Current Coach Antonio Conte's decision to call up Brazilian-born Eder and Argentinean-born Franco Vazquez sparked the protests of a number of figures in Italian football, including Inter Coach Roberto Mancini.

But the World-Cup-winning tactician, speaking to Premium Sport, was openly in favour of Conte's strategy.

Former Italia Coach Marcello Lippi says that if Cristiano Ronaldo or Messi had Italian relatives, the oriundi controversy would not subsist.

Current Coach Antonio Conte's decision to call up Brazilian-born Eder and Argentinean-born Franco Vazquez sparked the protests of a number of figures in Italian football, including Inter Coach Roberto Mancini.

But the World-Cup-winning tactician, speaking to Premium Sport, was openly in favour of Conte's strategy.

“I won a World Cup with [Argentine oriundo Mauro German] Camoranesi,” he said.

“If Cristiano Ronaldo or Messi had Italian parents, nobody would have said a word. As long as the rules are respected, I don't see what the problem is.

“It would be better if all of the players were Italian, but if there are valid footballers, why shouldn't they be called?”

Byrob

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