Elia Caprile granted Albanian citizenship and could join Albania
Cagliari goalkeeper Elia Caprile, 25, received Albanian citizenship through his wife; FIFA eligibility rules must still be met before he can play.
On 23 October 2026, Cagliari goalkeeper Elia Caprile, 25, was granted Albanian citizenship and has emerged as a possible addition to the Albania national team.
Caprile currently plays for Cagliari and, so far, has not made an appearance for the Italy senior national team, although he received a call-up to the national squad.
According to reports, he obtained dual citizenship thanks to his wife, who is of Albanian origin.
What it means for international eligibility
Receiving an Albanian passport does not automatically clear the way for Caprile to represent Albania on the pitch. Any change of national team allegiance must meet FIFA's eligibility rules.
The next steps would normally involve formal paperwork with the national federations and FIFA; only after those conditions are satisfied could he be declared available for selection by the Albanian coaching staff.
For Albania, the possibility of adding a 25-year-old goalkeeper with club experience in Italy expands options between the posts and will be monitored closely by supporters and federation officials.
Photo: press material from the event
