Australia coach Tony Popovic says he wishes Cristian Volpato well after the Socceroos prospect gave his strongest indication yet he would pledge international allegiance to Italy.
As Croatian-born Ante Suto prepares for a likely Socceroos debut in Friday night's friendly against Cameroon, native Sydneysider Volpato looks set to go in the other direction, telling reporters at the weekend he was "waiting for Italy".
Volpato's apparent preferencing of Italy over Australia came after he turned down a spot in the Socceroos' 2022 World Cup squad, and despite the possible chance to compete at the 2026 event that begins in June.
Italy are having to compete in UEFA play-offs to qualify for the World Cup and even if they are successful, it appears highly unlikely Volpato would be in the frame for a berth at the tournament.
Volpato, who plays for Serie A club Sassuolo, is only the latest potential Socceroo to indicate allegiance to an international rival after Adrian Segecic (Croatia) and Nectar Triantis (Greece) also turned their backs on the set-up in recent times.
"That's okay. If that's the choice he's made, then I wish him well. That's all," Popovic said of Volpato's plans to defect.
Popovic intimated it was clear where Volpato's heart lay.
"Someone has to want to represent their country," he said.
"Whether they've played two minutes or not entered the country like Ante Suto, or it's someone that's come through the system, it doesn't matter. You have to want to play for the country.
"If you do, you will accept whatever is put in front of you and whatever journey it takes to get to that level, if you even get there, because that's where you want to be. I think it's quite simple."
Popovic said he would keep Dylan Scicluna in mind for future international opportunities after the 21-year-old opted to change allegiances from Malta to Australia this week.
"Anyone that's eligible for Australia, regardless of age or where they play, we're happy. We're monitoring everyone," he said.
The Socceroos host Cameroon in Sydney on Friday night before facing Curacao in Melbourne on Tuesday for their final match on home soil before the World Cup.
Cameroon did not qualify for the World Cup, and gun player Bryan Mbeumo misses the fixture against Australia to rest.
"It is disappointing, he's obviously doing very, very well for his club at the moment and helping them improve their form," Popovic said of the Manchester United star.
"You always want to challenge yourself against the best."
