Marco Verratti (Part 2)

uPh5...cSoq

6 Apr 2024

Marco Verratti (Part 2)

In the 2020–21 season with Paris Saint-Germain, Verratti reached the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League, though the team ultimately fell short, losing 4–1 on aggregate to Manchester City. Additionally, PSG failed to retain the Ligue 1 title, as Lille emerged as champions.
However, Verratti had standout moments during the season. On 23 January 2022, he showcased his scoring prowess by netting two goals in a 4–0 league victory over Reims. This marked his first league goal since May 2017 and also represented the first brace of his career.
In April 2022, PSG secured their tenth Ligue 1 title in its history after a 1–1 draw against Lens. Verratti played a significant role in this achievement, winning his eighth Ligue 1 title with PSG and becoming the first player to accomplish this feat.

Verratti further demonstrated his commitment to PSG by extending his contract until 30 June 2026. His loyalty and contributions to the team were evident when, on 27 May 2023, he secured his ninth Ligue 1 title, solidifying his status as a key figure in the club's success.
However, Verratti's time at PSG came to an unexpected end in August 2023, as reports emerged that newly appointed coach Luis Enrique had informed him he would not be part of the team's plans for the upcoming season. Subsequently, he was excluded from the Champions League squad for the 2023–24 season. After 11 years and 416 matches with PSG, Verratti departed as the player with the second-most appearances for the club, behind only Jean-Marc Pilorget.

Verratti's international career with Italy has been marked by notable moments and contributions. Initially included in Cesare Prandelli's preliminary 32-man squad for UEFA Euro 2012, he was one of the two Serie B players selected but was eventually cut from the final squad.
His debut for the Italian senior team came on 15 August 2012, in a friendly against England. Verratti then made his first competitive appearance in the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification, featuring as a substitute against Bulgaria on 7 September 2012. He scored his first international goal on 6 February 2013, netting a late equalizer against the Netherlands in a friendly match.

Verratti's involvement continued as he represented Italy at the 2013 UEFA European Under-21 Championship, where they finished as runners-up to Spain, with Verratti earning a place in UEFA's all-star squad for the tournament.
Selected for the 2014 FIFA World Cup, Verratti played a pivotal role in Italy's midfield during the tournament, notably contributing to their victory over England in the opening match. However, Italy failed to progress past the group stage.
Injuries affected Verratti's availability for Euro 2016, but he returned to the national team under Gian Piero Ventura's management. His second international goal came on 26 March 2019, in a UEFA Euro 2020 qualifying match against Liechtenstein.

Verratti played a significant role in Italy's successful campaign at UEFA Euro 2020 under manager Roberto Mancini. Despite missing the initial matches due to injury, he made impactful contributions upon his return, assisting goals against Wales and Belgium. In the final against England, Verratti played a key role in Italy's equalizing goal, leading them to victory in the penalty shootout and securing the Euro 2020 title. His exceptional performances throughout the tournament earned him recognition as the top performer in the FedEx Performance Zone.

Marco Verratti is renowned for his exceptional skill set, which has earned him recognition as one of the finest midfield talents in the world. A player of remarkable agility and creativity, Verratti possesses an impressive array of dribbling abilities, quick reflexes, and precise ball control. His confidence and calmness under pressure allow him to maintain possession in tight spaces, owing to his low center of gravity and impeccable balance.
With outstanding vision and passing range, Verratti excels in orchestrating attacks and dictating the tempo of play from midfield. Whether it's delivering accurate long passes or orchestrating short, intricate exchanges, he has the ability to unlock defenses and create scoring opportunities for his teammates. Despite being naturally right-footed, Verratti showcases proficiency with both feet, adding versatility to his game.

Often compared to Italian legend Andrea Pirlo, Verratti has seamlessly transitioned into a deep-lying playmaker role, displaying qualities reminiscent of his idol. However, he has also demonstrated adaptability by thriving in more advanced positions, showcasing his versatility as a midfielder.
Regarded as a hardworking and tenacious player, Verratti is not only adept at initiating attacks but also contributes significantly defensively. Despite his stature, he possesses remarkable aggression and ball-winning abilities, making him a formidable presence in midfield.
However, Verratti has faced criticism for his disciplinary issues, including his tendency to accumulate unnecessary fouls and bookings, as well as his offensive output. Additionally, injuries have posed challenges throughout his career, hindering his consistency on the pitch.
Nevertheless, Verratti's impact on the game has earned praise from some of the sport's greatest players, with accolades from the likes of Andrés Iniesta, Lionel Messi, and Neymar, highlighting his stature as one of the premier midfielders in modern football.

Marco Verratti's personal life has seen its share of ups and downs. He was previously in a long-term relationship with Laura Zazzara, whom he married and had two sons with. However, the couple separated in early 2019. Following Italy's Euro 2020 victory, Verratti tied the knot with model Jessica Aidi in Paris in July 2021.
Despite his success on the field, Verratti faced legal issues off the pitch when he was arrested for drunk driving on the Boulevard Périphérique in October 2018. He faced consequences for his actions, including a fine from Paris Saint-Germain.