Amauri's dreams of playing in the 2010 FIFA World Cup is coming true after he finally become an Italian citizen.

The striker had waited for three years since his application and he is now eligible for a call up to the Italian national team.

The Brazilian-born 29-year-old had to wait for authorities to recognise his wife's Italian roots but it was finally resolved.

After his citizenship ceremony, Amauri said: "I have been waiting for this day for a long time.

"The wait has been a long one, but after many years I am Italian and very proud too. Today I am very emotional."

When asked about the prospect of representing Italy at the World Cup, Amauri said: "We'll see about that.

"Now I am truly Italian and if there were the opportunity to play for Italy, I would be the happiest man in the world."