Dino Zoff would welcome Francesco Totti back into the Italy side, but he’s played down comparisons between Mattia De Sciglio and Paolo Maldini.
Dino Zoff would welcome Francesco Totti back into the Italy side, but he’s played down comparisons between Mattia De Sciglio and Paolo Maldini.
Italy boss Cesare Prandelli this week suggested that he would consider the 36-year-old Roma captain for the 2014 World Cup if his form deserved a call-up.
“Totti has enormous technical and tactical qualities,” the former Azzurri tactician told Radio Mana Mana.
“I’d be very happy to see him back with the national side.
“He played a great European Championship when I was in charge [Euro 2000], whereas, with others, he wasn’t able to confirm himself on the international stage.”
Totti, who hasn’t appeared for his country since winning the World Cup in 2006, scored nine goals in 58 caps for the Azzurri.
Meanwhile, Milan left-back De Sciglio is set to win his first appearance against Brazil in tonight’s international friendly in Geneva.
“He’s an excellent player, but you have to see how these youngsters do after their debut for the national side,” the 1982 World Cup winner added.
“There is talk of comparisons with Maldini, but it is far too soon to judge.”
“We can return to winning ways. I’m curious to see how Brazil play, but I’m convinced we can beat them.
“In 1982? It was no great feat, we were simply quicker and more dangerous than them.”