Top 3 players capable of replacing Andrea Pirlo

He has just been getting better with age. Pirlo has been the driving force for club and country for what seems like ages now . Football fans in general won't like the sight of him hanging up his boots but eventually Andrea Pirlo will have to settle for a lesser role in the coming years.Yes, he can't be replaced by Italy nor by Juventus instantly but someone will have to fill the gap left by him. This gap is by no means a small one, as his team's all round play depends on him. There are many players who can fill that Andrea Pirlo role for the time being such as the likes of Daniele De Rossi, Ricardo Montolivo and Thiago Motta.But the three names who are mentioned below are the best when considered as a long term solution for Italy's midfield anchorman role . With Pirlo possibly playing his last international tournament for Italy, we examine the players capable of filling the gap in the coming years.

#1 Marco Verratti - Paris Saint Germain

Marco Verratti is one of Europe's brightest midfield prospects. The former Pescara player is a defensive midfielder with some qualities which are rather surprising for a player in his position. Technically gifted, he's a supreme passer of the ball, particularly in tight situation. His remarkable ability to get away from players helps a whole lot here.

He's also a quick, sublime dribbler who can find the right pass in the final third. Paris Saint Germain depend heavily on Verratti to get the ball out of defense and link up with the forwards. 

Although small in size, his ability to retain the ball is one of his major assets. Being quick, he isn't afraid to dive into tackles. Verratti can also operate behind the striker in the no.10 role when needed. His technique  of going about things on the pitch calmly and his ability to pick a pass under pressure make him a player capable of filling the void which will be left by Andrea Pirlo. Just 21, he's the perfect player around whom Italy can build a team for the future.