Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Marco Verratti says it would be an ‘honour’ to replace Andrea Pirlo in the Italy setup.
The playmaker has been identified by many as the successor to the Juventus man for the Azzurri, and the former Pescara man speaks of his admiration for the veteran.
“It would be a huge honour [to replace Pirlo],” Verratti told UEFA’s official website.
“Andrea has had a great career and he still is a fantastic player who can make a difference in any match.
Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Marco Verratti says it would be an ‘honour’ to replace Andrea Pirlo in the Italy setup.
The playmaker has been identified by many as the successor to the Juventus man for the Azzurri, and the former Pescara man speaks of his admiration for the veteran.
“It would be a huge honour [to replace Pirlo],” Verratti told UEFA’s official website.
“Andrea has had a great career and he still is a fantastic player who can make a difference in any match.
“To be considered close to a champion like him is a great honour. I admire players like [Andres] Iniesta, Pirlo, they are players I've always learned from.
“I play the way I like to play. I like playing in midfield, and I like it when we come off the pitch and we've won and I've had fun.”
The 22-year-old has been sporadically linked with a return to Serie A, but Verratti insists he’s happy with life in France.
“I have felt great since my first day here. I have to thank Paris Saint-Germain because they have given me three splendid years, and I hope I can experience many more.
“When a young player feels the trust and belief of their club it is ideal for your development. Even in hard times they have been behind me and that is something I will never forget.
“Trust is the most important thing. When you are successful you have lots of people close to you, trying to help you; but it's in the hard times where you see the help and support that a club like this gives you.
“I am very happy here. I have team-mates I get along with off the pitch and talking with the coaching staff always helps me and makes me want to give more.
“This is a team that was put together not long ago, so achieving the results we've had in the past three years means we have been doing well.”