Manchester United full-back Matteo Darmian has hinted at a move back to Serie A, admitting he misses Italy.
The 29-year-old was signed from Torino in 2015 but has struggled to establish himself at Old Trafford, particularly falling out of favour under Jose Mourinho.
He has made just three appearances for the Red Devils this season and featured only eight times in the Premier League last term with the Portuguese boss favouring the likes of Antonio Valencia and Ashley Young as wing-backs.
Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport , Darmian said: "I must say, I really do miss Serie A and Italy now.
"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."
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Despite his lack of game time in England, Darmian was a regular member of Italy's international squad in their failed World Cup qualification campaign for the 2018 tournement in Russia.
However, he has not features for his country since former Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini took charge.
Darmian continued: "Returning to play for Italy is my objective. Roberto Mancini hasn't called me up yet, but I hope he will in future."
The United right-back had to watch on as Italy came second in their Nations League group, finishing as runners-up to Portugal but beating Poland.
Juventus and Inter were linked with a move for Darmian in the summer and Napoli confirmed that they made a bid for him .
They failed to meet United's demands, although the Reds still signed 19-year-old Diogo Dalot in the same transfer window for £19 million ($24m). Dalot has started the last two league games at right-back against Arsenal and Fulham, and Mourinho beleives the defender could claim the spot for the next 10 years , further cementing Darmian's lowly position at the club.
The Reds have had a turbulent season with Mourinho often criticising his players in the press and enduring a very public fall-out with record signing Paul Pogba.
A 4-1 win over Fulham on Saturday has steadied the ship, but they travel to Valencia on Wednesday before a tough trip to in-form Liverpool next weekend.
