​”My mother’s jollof rice” — Genoa rising star at a crossroads between representing Super Eagles or Italy

​Genoa defender Alessandro Marcandalli has revealed that despite his deep cultural ties to Nigeria, he is yet to make a final decision regarding his international future, Afrik-Foot reports.

​Marcandalli is among the growing number of modern footballers holding dual citizenship. Born in Bergamo to an Italian father and a Nigerian mother, the 23-year-old is eligible to represent either nation under FIFA’s eligibility rules.

While he has featured for Italy at the youth level, he remains uncapped by the senior side in a competitive fixture, leaving the door open for a potential switch to the Super Eagles.

​However, Marcandalli has not featured in international football since 2024. This has created an air of uncertainty, particularly as the Italian national team remains stacked with elite center-backs like Alessandro Bastoni, Gianluca Mancini, and Alessandro Buongiorno.

With such heavy competition in the Azzurri roster, a path to the Nigerian starting XI might prove to be more accessible for the young defender.

​Marcandalli: Genoa Star Reveals Ties To Nigeria

​When recently asked about his international allegiance, Marcandalli admitted he is still weighing his options.

While he acknowledged that his family will play a significant role in the process, he emphasized that the final choice remains his alone.

​”When the call comes, I’ll decide. I’ll listen to my parents, but the decision will be mine; it will be very personal. I was in Nigeria as a child and I’d like to go back; I have family there,” the Genoa man told Todomecardo.

​He also spoke warmly about his cultural connection to his mother’s homeland:

“I listen to a lot of Afrobeats; I love it. I like my mother’s Jollof rice—spicy with peppers. I followed the Africa Cup of Nations closely and cheered for Nigeria.”

​Why Marcandalli is the Perfect Fit for the Super Eagles

​Marcandalli has enjoyed a decent rise over the last five years, growing from the Genoa academy to a first-team regular.

Following successful loan spells at Pontedera, Reggiana, and Venezia, he has established himself in Serie A this season, featuring in 20 games and recording two assists.

​Standing at an imposing 6’3″, the defender has a dominant aerial presence and excellent technical ability on the ball.

Schooled in the tough and hard Italian defending tradition, Marcandalli is known for his ability to read the game, his ruthlessness, and his tendency to drive forward into midfield.

​These qualities would bring a significant boost to the Super Eagles‘ defensive depth. While Calvin Bassey has cemented his spot at left center-back, Marcandalli’s arrival would provide stiff competition for the likes of Semi Ajayi and Benjamin Fredrick.

At just 23, his ceiling remains high, making him a primary target for Nigerian football scouts.