One could make a case that Marco Verratti has been among the more underappreciated midfielders over the past years. For Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Ander Herrera, he is not only paying his respects to Verratti in being one of the top midfield talents today, but he sees (via AS) that the Italian international is at the “level” of former Barcelona greats Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta.
“Still, I have a special devotion to Verratti,” Herrera told AS. “The footballer always thinks he has to play, but if he plays in your position? Nothing to say. I put him at the level of Xavi and Iniesta.”
Verratti garnered plenty of high recognition over the last year. From his stout performances over the UEFA Euro 2020 tournament to his formidable showings for PSG in UEFA Champions League and Ligue 1 play this past season, he has simply continued to make it look easy with his keen play in the middle of the park.
Herrera is not the only player who sees a bit of Xavi and Iniesta in Verratti. For one, Neymar noted in February that the Italian international is up there with the two former Spanish internationals in being one of the “best” midfielders who he has played with.
Verratti is coming off of a season where he featured in 24 total Ligue 1 matches.
Verratti could have been at the level of former Barcelona greats Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta, if he didn’t play for PSG!