Manuel Locatelli was the MVP of the match when Italy secured a 3-0 win over Switzerland at EURO 2020, five months later he has changed kit and role at club level.
UEFA awarded Locatelli the man of the match award after his brace against the Swiss in the group stage of the European Championship.
The former Sassuolo star helped Italy go all the way, stepping in when needed the most and creating an even bigger name for himself in Italian football.
He has since joined Serie A giants Juventus, an important move to his favourite club, but the change of position has been as significant for the creative midfielder.
Locatelli was never a goalscorer, arriving with seven goals in 99 competitive games with Sassuolo, but the expectations have increased due to his performances with Italy over the summer.
But the former Milan youngster’s new position as a ‘mezzala’ under Massimiliano Allegri, limits the attacking contribution from the 23-year-old at club level.
Locatelli has contributed two goals in 16 competitive games and has yet to score in the four Champions League this term.
Italy CT Roberto Mancini, however, should give the Juventus midfielder the freedom to contribute going forward, as Jorginho sits in the control room.
Locatelli, capped 18 times by Italy, has scored three times for the national team so far, but will he be back to punish the Swiss tonight?
#Italy vs. #Switzerland is Locatelli’s game
The #Juventus midfielder bagged a brace when the two clashed at #Euro2020, will he score again tonight?https://t.co/fMx0hc8Mz7#Locatelli #ITASUI #WCQ
— footballitalia (@footballitalia) November 12, 2021
I hope he hasn’t been dragged down by Allegri’s defensive tactical mindset and not lost his attacking presence when at Sassuolo
He’s play for Juventus under Allegri. What should we expect? It’s always a big step backward for any attacking players to sign for Allegri’s Juve. Even though I support Juve, it’s a worry everytime we sign attacking-minded young player from Italy. Allegri will stall them and forcing them to play very defensive. Allegri is destroying Italian attacking young talents.