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Aussie Teen Arena Scores on AS Roma Debut
14 Jan
Summary
- Arena scored with his first professional touch for AS Roma.
- He represented Italy at the U17 World Cup due to dual citizenship.
- Football Australia faces a battle to secure his international future.
Sydney-born Anthony Arena has ignited excitement in the football world with a remarkable debut for Italian club AS Roma. The 16-year-old forward scored with his first professional touch, a header in the 81st minute of a Coppa Italia match against Torino. Despite Roma's eventual 3-2 loss, Arena's impactful entrance has drawn comparisons to Australian football legends.
Arena's journey to this point has been swift. Having moved to Italy at 13, he progressed through the Pescara academy, becoming their youngest goal scorer and helping them earn promotion. He then joined AS Roma for a reported $1.78 million. Arena also impressed at the U17 World Cup, representing Italy due to his dual citizenship, scoring twice and providing two assists.
His emergence presents a compelling choice for his international future. While he has represented Australia at the U16 level, his performances for Italy in the U17 World Cup have intensified speculation about his allegiance. Football Australia now faces a challenge in securing him for the Socceroos, a situation reminiscent of other young talents who have navigated dual nationality choices.
