Cagliari goalkeeper Elia Caprile could opt for
By OnzeActu · · 5 min read
Italian goalkeeper Elia Caprile, aged 25 and playing for Cagliari, was naturalized Albanian thanks to his marriage, which could allow him to represent Albania in the national team, although he has never played in the Italian A selection.
Why it matters
Obtaining Albanian nationality by Elia Caprile could transform his international career. As Cagliari goalkeeper, he has so far represented Italy at lower levels, but this new opportunity could see him play at senior level for Albania, a country looking to strengthen its national team. This could also have implications for the Italian selection, which could lose a promising talent.
Key points
- Elia Caprile, Cagliari goalkeeper, could opt for.
- Italian goalkeeper Elia Caprile, aged 25 and playing for Cagliari, was naturalized Albanian thanks to his marriage, which could allow him to represent Albania in the national team, although he has never played in the Italian A selection.
- Italy could lose Caprile to Albania after Cagliari goalkeeper gains citizenship - Yahoo Sports.
Born in Verona to Italian parents, Caprile has no blood ties to Albania. His new nationality was granted to him due to his marriage to Emily Toshkollari, whose family is of Albanian origin. This dual nationality opens a possible door to the Albanian selection, while the player has so far worn Italian colors at youth levels (U18 and U21) and was even called up in November 2025 by Gennaro Gattuso for the senior selection, without however obtaining an official cap.
However, this naturalization does not automatically guarantee one's eligibility to represent Albania in official competition. FIFA imposes strict criteria, requiring a player to have a real connection to the country, via place of birth, ancestry or prolonged residence, conditions that marriage alone does not satisfy. The Albanian federation is nevertheless exploring the possibility of selecting him, which would require the agreement of FIFA, which has already blocked similar cases of international changes in the past.
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An irony remains: Albania's current number one goalkeeper, Alen Sherri, is Caprile's direct replacement at Italian club Cagliari. The Albanian coach, Rolando Maran, thus has in-depth knowledge of Italian football and the Sardinian club, having already coached in Serie A with Chievo, Cagliari and Genoa.
If FIFA validates the international transfer, Caprile could become a key element of Albanian ambitions, while offering a unique scenario where two goalkeepers from the same club compete for the same place in their respective selections.
This potential decision comes in a context where FIFA rules on changes of nationality in football are more rigorous, but remain flexible depending on the case. The Caprile file will be closely monitored, particularly for the impact it could have in qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, of which Albania is a part.
The rest
The Albanian FA is considering bringing in Caprile, but this will depend on FIFA approval. If the federation can prove a sufficient link between Caprile and Albania, he could be integrated into the national team. In the meantime, Caprile will continue to play for Cagliari in Serie A, where he will need to maintain a high standard to attract the attention of the selectors.
Frequently asked questions
What happened with Elia Caprile?
Elia Caprile, Cagliari goalkeeper, obtained Albanian nationality, which could allow him to change national team.
Who confirmed the Albanian nationality of Elia Caprile?
Albanian President Bajram Begaj signed the official decree on October 19.
Why did Elia Caprile obtain Albanian citizenship now?
He obtained Albanian citizenship due to his marriage to Emily Toshkollari, whose family is of Albanian origin.
What changes could this bring for Elia Caprile?
This dual nationality could open the door for him
to represent Albania at international level.
What are the conditions for Elia Caprile to play for Albania?
FIFA requires a real link with the country, which marriage alone does not satisfy, and the Albanian federation must obtain FIFA's agreement.