In a city known for its vibrant Italian-American culture, the upcoming World Cup in the US has left a sour taste among New York City's Italian enclaves. As Italy, a traditionally powerhouse in international soccer, fails to qualify for the tournament, many in the city's Little Italy, Arthur Avenue in the Bronx, and other Italian-American neighborhoods are feeling the sting of exclusion. "It's like they've turned the lights off on us," said one local business owner, reflecting the sense of disappointment and disillusionment that has settled over the community. With the World Cup set to kick off in the US, these once-thriving Italian neighborhoods are now eerily quiet, a stark contrast to the usual excitement and energy that comes with the world's biggest sporting event.
NYC Italian enclaves left out of the party as World Cup comes to US with Italy on sidelines: 'Turned the lights off' New York Post
