Looking for ideas for a gift for 8 year old boy

A couple random thoughts: even if a toy car or truck was a decidedly American design (Ford, Chevy, Dodge, Hummer, etc.), I suspect it rolled off an assembly line in China, and could be found in a store in Italy, or easily ordered online. Still, a Chinese-made fire truck or police car sold in the USA probably looks like an American fire or police vehicle, while a Chinese-made vehicle sold in Italy probably looks like one commonly seen in Italy.

I’m guessing he’ll be involved in following European soccer soon, if not already. But maybe your home sports teams (pro or college) - would a jersey or ball make a prized memento? Teams like the Yankees and Lakers are widely known, and knock-off shirts and hats are found throughout the world (sometimes in the wrong colors!), but a lesser-copied, yet still-recognized and valued sports team’s regalia might be a unique gift to an Italian boy. Like, maybe, a Sonics or Seahawks item, which his friends would never get to have, and would put him ahead of the pack.

At that age my boys really liked those mini table top games.
They used to make basketball and a toss game. Their very favorite was a little pool table.
These are very small. Toys stores often have them in the travel games sections.
Comic books are fun.

Any woodworking artisans in your area who make really cool wood vehicles -- like planes, trains, cars, etc? I have a wood airplane my parents gave me (a plane fanatic) that is awesome -- not a chunky preschooler plane, but something really nice.

I like Cyn's idea a lot, too. Since soccer is more popular in Italy than football or basketball, how about getting a Sounders FC jersey?

Thanks for the ideas.