‘Messi predicted bright future’ for new Juventus signing Alcaraz

Ezequiel Schelotto, a former teammate of Carlos Alcaraz at Racing Club says the new Juventus signing is similar to Rodrigo De Paul and Claudio Marchisio and claims even Leo Messi predicted a bright future for the Argentinean midfielder.

Schelotto, a former Serie A midfielder for Inter and Atalanta, among other teams, played in the 2021-22 campaign with Alcaraz at Racing Club.

The 21-year-old has joined Juventus on an initial loan deal with an option to buy from Southampton for €49.5m, but Schelotto is convinced Alcaraz will be worth every penny.

“Juventus made a great move,” the 34-year-old told Tuttosport.

“We are talking about a huge talent destined to become a top player in a couple of years. He is considered a big player in Argentina and even Leo Messi predicted a bright future for him.

“Charly can grow in Italy and become one of the most important players in the world. I think he can aim to become a starter for Argentina in two years. He has everything to make it and he can complete his growth process at Juventus. He is 21 but has already started in more than 100 games between Argentina and England.”

So, where can he fit in at Juventus?

“He can play as a Mezzala (box-to-box midfielder) on the right,” replied Schelotto.

“To me, this is his ideal role. Alcaraz’s late runs are dangerous and he has an excellent shoot from distance. He is strong with both feet, he has great quality, but he helps defensively as well.”

Will he settle in well in the Bianconeri’s dressing room?

“He is a very good guy too. He never causes problems and listens to advice from teammates with more experience,” noted his ex-teammate.

“Charly knows how to make himself respected, he doesn’t speak much, but when he does, he leaves a mark. He is 21 but he seems wiser for his age.”

Is he similar to any ex-Juventus midfielder?

“If I have to name a former Juventus player, I’d say Marchisio, but if you ask me to compare him with an Argentinean player, I’d say De Paul even if Carlos is a little more attacking-minded,” concluded Schelotto.

Schelotto was born in Argentina in 1989 but having an Italian passport, he made one appearance with the Azzurri senior team in 2012 against England under Cesare Prandelli, but that was his only appearance with La Nazionale.

He also made seven appearances with the U21 squad. He currently plays for Barletta 1922 in Serie D, Italy’s fourth division.