PSG midfielder Thiago Motta insists he "feels Italian", despite being Brazilian born and raised.
Motta is expected to start for Italy in their World Cup clash with Costa Rica.
"I like playing football, that's all," said Thiago Motta in today's Press conference.
"I was born in Brazil, but I feel Italian. It is a pleasure to step on to the field, to play a World Cup in Brazil and above all to play in a great national team.
"Now the sensation is difficult to explain. When time has passed, I'll be able to describe how I felt during this tournament.
"I left Brazil very early in my life, as I was only 15. I spent a lot of time in Spain and became accustomed to the European style of living and playing.
"I have the fortune and privilege of an Italian family and therefore was able to play for Italy. My father was born in Brazil, but my grandfather was Italian from Rovigo.
"I feel like an Italian who happened to be born in Brazil and I am very happy with that situation. It never entered my mind to come back to Brazil once I left for Europe.
"I didn't have the same desire that the Brazilians, who I respect a great deal, had to wear the Seleçao jersey. This experience has helped me grow as a player and as a man."
