'Tough for a gay player to come out'

By Football Italia staff

Genoa goalkeeper Mattia Perin has admitted that it would be difficult for a gay player to come out in Italy.

The world of football came to support former Lazio man Thomas Hitzlsperger when he announced his sexuality before Christmas.

But as yet, no current footballer has revealed he is gay.

“Compared to other sports, our one, especially in Italy, is very conservative,” Perin told Italia 1.

“I think it would be difficult for someone to declare their sexuality at this time.”

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