Homesick Mat eyes return to Serie A and Italy squad

MATTEO Darmian has admitted he misses life in his native Italy amid speculation surrounding his future at Old Trafford.

The 29-year-old full-back has made just three appearances for United this season after missing out on a summer move back to Serie A.

Italian giants Juventus and Inter Milan were linked with Darmian’s services after United boss Jose Mourinho said the defender – who was signed by Louis Van Gaal in 2015 – would be allowed to leave if the club received a suitable offer.

“Matteo wants to leave and I think when a player wants to leave, if the right offer arrives, you have to try to be human and let the player follow his instinct but not at any price,” Mourinho said during United’s pre-season tour of America.

“Until now, the offers we got for Matteo are not even close to being accepted.”

Darmian’s most recent appearance for the Reds came in the 2-2 home draw against Arsenal, when he deputised at left-back for the injured Luke Shaw. But the former Torino man says he misses Italy and has eyed a return to the national team.

“I must say, I really do miss Serie A and Italy now,” he said.

“I know that I am at one of the best clubs in the world and I am proud to be at Manchester United, but I do miss Italy. I love my country.

“Returning to play for Italy is my objective. Roberto Mancini (Italy head coach) hasn’t called me up yet, but I hope he will in future.”