PSG midfielder Verratti talks up Udinese teen Pafundi; considers Serie A return

PSG midfielder Marco Verratti is excited about the young talent Italy now boast.

The Azzurri kickoff their Euro2024 qualifying campaign tonight in Naples against England.

It's a great national team," Verrati said. And we're doing well, despite the World Cup. That's football and in Europe it's tough to qualify. The journey we've been on with the coach has been important. Now let's start a new path. There is enthusiasm and we can achieve great results. We will be ready."

Verratti also spoke of Udinese's 17-year-old forward Simone Pafundi.

I like him a lot," Verratti said. He's a player who knows football. Even if he doesn't play much for his club, he has great quality. I already knew him, but looking closely, he amazed me. If he continues like this, he can go far."

Of his own future with PSG, he added: I would always like and want to win, but it's not always possible. I really want to grow and I want to play for a long time and win. Will I go back to Italy? We'll see in the future."