‘Verratti Italy’s future and present’

Thiago Motta believes his Paris Saint-Germain teammate Marco Verratti is “the future and also the present” of Italy.

The Brazilian born-midfielder has been playing for the Azzurri since 2011, and believes his club and international teammate is key to future success.

“Verratti is not only the future, but the present of the national team,” Motta told Gazzetta dello Sport.

“There’s no-one of his level in Italy, and he can play on par with the German champions, though maybe he plays in a different role for the Azzurri.

“I see him as a more mature man, Marco just has to believe in his destiny as a top player.”

Mario Balotelli also plays in France, could his form for Nice earn him a recall for the national team?

“Mario has found the right environment in Nice. He’s not in top physical condition, but he has time to be decisive again.

“To be useful to Italy he’ll also have to be a team player, join the group even if he doesn’t play. Also because [Andrea] Belotti and [Ciro] Immobile are working hard.”

Motta’s agent said this week that he’ll leave PSG when his contract expires, and the former Inter man confirmed as much.

“PSG is like my home,” Motta said.

“Over these past five seasons I’ve always given everything to win and to contribute to the growth of the project. So I think this will be my last year in Paris as a player.

“I can still play at a high level, and also in emerging and challenging Leagues. But I could also start Coaching.

“When and where will depend on what projects I’m offered, but I’ll always decide everything in sync with President [Nassr] Al Khelaifi.”