Lotito Prohibits Immobile From Joining Italy's Squad In Away Match With Hungary

Ciro Immobile has been prohibited by Lazio president Claudio Lotito for his attempt to travel with the Italian national team to the UEFA Nations League game against Hungary, according to reports in Italy.

The 32-year-old striker was called up by coach Roberto Mancini during this month's international break but he was not part of the Azzurri team that defeated England 1-0 at the San Siro on September 24.

It was revealed that Immobile had a muscle problem last week, but he tested fine on Sunday.

Ciro Immobile was supposed to join Mancini's squad for the team's away game against Hungary in Budapest. However, president Claudio Lotito prohibited this from happening due to concerns he had about Ciro's productivity.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Lotito stepped in directly to prevent his departure and urged the striker to return to Rome immediately instead of joining the Azzurri. Lotito is concerned about his captain's health and believes that playing him prematurely would hurt Lazio.

The Italian national soccer team needs a victory when playing away at the Puskas Arena in Budapest. By winning this match, the Italians could guarantee themselves an advantage point and be the winner of the Group and appear in the semifinals of the UEFA Nations League next year.

Hungary currently leads the group with 8 points out of 5 matches. By comparison, the European Cup 2020 champions currently sit in second place with 8 points out of 5 matches. They are 2 points behind Hungary.