The revered Italian football daily, La Gazzetta dello Sport, have set about the audacious task of putting together their best Serie A XI of youngsters, being players aged 23 or younger.
Adopting a 3-4-3 formation, this is the team they can up with:
Goalkeeper: Gianluca Curci (Siena, 23)
While Italy have a long history of top keepers, Curci is the next home-grown talent to burst on the scene. The former U-18, U-19 and U-20 Azzurri keeper opted to further his career last summer when he moved from Roma to Siena, acknowledging that the time has arrived for the young talent to develop his game with regular football. Manchester United fans may remember Curci for his stellar performance at Old Trafford in last season’s Champions League.
(Video evidence here.)
Right back: Stefan Radu (Lazio, 22)
Having learned his trade at Dinamo Bucharest, Lazio initally brought Radu to the Stadio Olimpico on loan, only to sign the defender who can play across the backline for €5.4m. Labelled “The new Chivu” in his homeland, Radu has regularly turned out for both club and country.
(Video evidence here.)
Centre back: Luca Rossettini (Siena, 23)
Despite being only 5.9 ft, Rossettini is known as a no-nonsense defender who relies on his strength and aerial ability. Sadly for the defender, he recently required knee surgery keeping him sidelined for up to four months.
Left back: Domenico Criscito (Genoa, 21)
Earmarked as one of the most promising defenders of his generation, the Juventus owned defender is presently farmed out to Genoa as he develops his talents. At Genoa he has played an integral part in last season’s promotion to Serie A, and is renowned for his excellent technique, pace and positional sense.
(Video evidence here.)
Right midfield: Mauricio Isla (Udinese, 20)
Blessed with the lungs of a marathon runner, the Chilean was picked up by Udinese after having impressed at the U-20 World Cup in Canada. Isla is known for being pacey, skillful and with a keen eye for goal.
(Video evidence here.)
Centre midfield: Riccardo Montolivo (Fiorentina, 23)
Blooded at Atalanta, Montolivo was signed by the Viola in 2005 and has since chalked up over 100 Serie A appearances. An attacking midfielder, elegant on the ball, skilful and able to score goals, he was rewarded for his talents by being called up for the Italian squad at last summer’s Olympics.
(Video evidence here.)
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