Who would have thought it?
With Prandelli prepping the Azurri for the World Cup next year and finalizing the squad, the cries are getting louder. The fans are calling for him and now Prandelli has accepted that Totti's performances DESERVE a place in the squad. Without a doubt, and I have said in my video, Totti should be IN THE SQUAD. Not to start that first game in Brazil, but he must be part of this team.
Friends. When I pick a World Cup Squad, one of the most IMPORTANT players that I pick...is the older guy. The one who has been there and done that. That wise old man, who still has class in him. Because know this...Totti's football was NEVER predicated on speed, or strength or athletic prowess. It was always about his touch and his classic football brain. We all know that with age, comes greater wisdom and that is what Roma are reaping now. Totti's awareness of the players on the pitch, and the ability to find the RIGHT pass is all there to see. And...he can notch in a good goal too as he did against Inter Milan.
With Pirlo and De Rossi controlling the center of midfield along with the younger blood, it will be hard for Totti to slip in. But, people must be picked on credit and performances. Right now, and yes it is early, but right now Totti is amongst the best performers in Serie A. What is more, is the system in which he is playing in is very similar to Prandelli's. The free-flowing attacking and the quick release of the ball is something Prandelli has been trying to instill in his team. We saw them do it beautifully against Germany, and Prandelli will want to add as many brains to the team as possible.
You know, we all love great stories. Like Pele coming back to the Brazil team in 1970, and we all know what happened. The Zidane story was almost the most perfect story ever written....so close. Now, Totti could write one of THE best Italian football stories ever. If he is to be in this Italian team and play an important role, then many would have to concede him of having one of the finest careers in Italian football. Remember, yes he did score that crucial penalty in 2006, but he did not play that much of a pivotal role. The name we really remember was Grosso who was THE player of that tournament, who ended up having the final decisive kick. So Totti may have some unfinished business on the world's grandest stage.
Let's see what happens, but I would urge Prandelli to look closely at what Totti is doing. In my opinion, he is playing the best football of his career. Gone is the delicate approach to the game, and now is the more determined and aggressive persona BUT he still possesses that unique skill that had him as one of the best players in the world between 2000 and 2002. With those two qualities, it is perfect for bringing him on when the game is tight, and giving him a free role to unlock that door.
Prandelli....take Totti. Ask no questions....just take him. Because, let's face it, there is not a surplus of talent in Italy right now as there was before. So, there is a spot for Totti and it would be a detriment to the Italian team if they don't at least have the OPTION of bringing him on.
HH
