Roma Talent Emerges as Future Midfield Option for Italy

Nicolò Pisilli, the promising 21-year-old midfielder from AS Roma, has earned a significant senior call-up for Italy’s upcoming World Cup play-offs. This latest recognition fuels the growing excitement around the youngster, who is increasingly seen as a future cornerstone for the Azzurri.

Pisilli made his senior international debut under Luciano Spalletti in October 2024, an appearance that remains his sole cap to date. However, his recent inclusion in the squad signals a clear path towards more regular involvement.

The news of Pisilli’s promotion, alongside Cagliari's Marco Palestra, brought immense pride to Italy U21 coach Silvio Baldini. Baldini expressed his delight, stating, “It is a success for us that they have been promoted to the senior squad because it means we contributed to their growth process.” He further commented on the immense pressure facing the senior team in critical matches, referencing seasoned players like Gattuso and Gigi Buffon who are accustomed to such high stakes. “They know there is a big responsibility on their shoulders, but we are all behind them,” Baldini added, emphasizing confidence in the team’s ability to qualify.

Pisilli consistently impressed during his time with the Italy U21 squad, netting five goals in 19 appearances. His strong form has extended to club level this season, where the Roma academy product has contributed three goals and two assists in 26 appearances across all competitions.

The young midfielder views training alongside his national team idols as an invaluable opportunity. “I think of Barella, Tonali, when he exploded with Milan, I always watched them on TV. It’s a great opportunity for me to be able to learn from them now,” Pisilli remarked recently.

He also shared his perspective on the team's dynamics, saying, “We’re a very strong group. Everyone here is really strong; they wouldn’t be here.” Pisilli underlined the importance of balancing composure with the gravity of the task ahead: “There has to be a balance. We need the calmness of a squad that knows that with 100% commitment, they can achieve the goal, but also with the awareness that something really important is at stake.”

Described as a complete central midfielder, Pisilli possesses the versatility to operate in various roles, from a holding midfielder to a box-to-box player or even an attacking No.10. With inspirations like Tonali and Barella, Pisilli aims to become a dynamic midfielder capable of influencing play across the pitch. It seems only a matter of time before he could be lining up alongside his idols in the heart of Italy’s midfield.