PSG Coach Carlo Ancelotti hails Italian international Marco Verratti as “the new Andrea Pirlo,” although it will take time for him to reach that level.
PSG Coach Carlo Ancelotti hails Italian international Marco Verratti as “the new Andrea Pirlo,” although it will take time for him to reach that level.
The midfielder has already been upgraded to the senior level despite being only 19 and earned a big money move to Paris Saint-Germain, where he earned plaudits for his Champions League performance this week.
“I think Pirlo could win the Ballon d’Or,” revealed Ancelotti.
“Italy can relax for the next World Cup, as they already have an alternative to Pirlo in midfield and his name is Marco Verratti.
“Of course, he’ll need to go a long way to reach Pirlo’s level! In his position he has to leave the ball very quickly, but he is fantastic with his control. He doesn’t feel the pressure of the opponent. I hope in future he can become even quicker at releasing the pass.”
Ancelotti was also asked about his former club Milan, who are struggling in Serie A and the Champions League.
“It’s a shame to see the situation they are going through, but it is only to be expected after losing important players like Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva. They made history with the club and it’s tough to create a new identity straight away.”