April 22 (Reuters) - A top envoy to ‌President Donald Trump ‌has asked FIFA to replace ​Iran with Italy in the upcoming World Cup, The Financial Times ‌reported ⁠on Wednesday.

"I confirm I have suggested ⁠to Trump and (FIFA president Gianni) Infantino that ​Italy replace ​Iran ​at the ‌World Cup. I'm an Italian native and it would be a dream to see the ‌Azzurri at ​a US-hosted ​tournament. ​With four titles, ‌they have the ​pedigree ​to justify inclusion," U.S. special envoy Paolo ​Zampolli ‌told the FT.