Verratti ready to make lasting impact with Italy

After swapping Pescara for Paris-Saint Germain FC, promising Italy midfielder Marco Verratti has gone from strength to strength and is poised to make his mark against Armenia on Friday.

Seasoned coach Zdeněk Zeman has forged a glowing reputation for bringing the best out of mercurial talent, but all too often players have left his side only to fade into obscurity. Italy prodigy Marco Verratti is something of an anomaly, however.

After leaving Pescara – who returned to Serie A under the stewardship of Zeman last term – the 19-year-old has made a seamless transition to life at Paris-Saint Germain FC, establishing himself as a fans’ favourite. Verratti, who was handed his senior Italy debut by coach Cesare Prandelli against England in August, oozes patriotism and is eager to make his mark on the international stage. “At the moment I am focusing on the present. I am desperate to represent the national team even if that means I end up playing in goal,” he said.

After collecting four points from their opening two FIFA World Cup Group B qualifiers against Bulgaria and Malta, Italy travel to Armenia on Friday and Prandelli is keen to find a place for Verratti in his team. “I think he can play alongside Pirlo, maybe slightly in front of him. They could even switch positions during the game,” said the tactician.” Verratti added: “I played a few games behind the striker at Pescara last season so I see myself as a versatile player. But, of course, I will play anywhere for Italy.”