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Italian National Team Top Call-Up Surprises We Could See
Published: May 9, 2014
Even though the Serie A has plummeted in recent years, there's a steady influx of young technical players ready to make their case on the senior side, and this is one of the first times in history that we'll see an Azzurri squad that has more weapons up front than at the back.
Historically, Italy has had a wall in the defense and played a cautious approach known around the world as "Catenaccio." That type of play has now been virtually eradicated from the national side as well as the Serie A, and a new free-flowing era has emerged under Cesare Prandelli that focuses on possession.
The coach is expected to make his initial call-ups early next week, and here are some of the biggest surprises we might see:
Goalkeeper:
With Gianluigi Buffon slotted in as the first choice and Salvatore Sirigu as the backup, the third-string position will go to a youngster. The two options are Genoa's Mattia Perin and 17-year-old teenage wonder kid Simone Scuffet, who won the starting job with Udinese.
Defense:
There won't be too many surprises in the defense, as the back line will include the Juventus trio as well as the Milan full-back pairing of Mattia De Sciglio and Ignazio Abate.
Gabriel Paletta should be the primary defensive substitute. He had a great season with Parma and is a tough presence in the heart of the back four.
Expect Italy's weakness to be on the flanks as both De Sciglio and Abate haven't even been able to win consistent starting spots with Milan. However, Italy doesn't have too much choice in this department.
Midfield:
The ...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - International Football
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