Super Eagles-eligible defender Alessandro Marcandalli has expressed his elation at being compared to former Chelsea defender Antonio Rudigier, Soccernet.ng reports.
Marcandalli’s career has experienced significant growth over the past year. Just last season, he was playing for Venezia in Serie B, but this season, he has become an important member of Genoa’s backline, featuring in 24 of their 30 games.
The 24-year-old center-back has averaged 46.3 touches per game, an 82 percent pass accuracy, 0.6 interceptions, and 2.5 ball recoveries. Notably, he has committed only two errors leading to a goal this season.
His performances have been key as Genoa sits 13th in the Serie A table, having picked up 33 points from 30 games. With eight games remaining, they need approximately nine more points to guarantee survival.
Meanwhile, club coach De Rossi has been highly appreciative of Marcandalli’s performances this season.
Marcandalli: Super Eagles-Eligible Defender's Response to the Rüdiger Comparison
Recently, De Rossi compared the Italian-Nigerian defender to Real Madrid star Rudigier. In response, the 24-year-old expressed his appreciation for his boss's praise. However, he admitted that he still needs to refine his game.
“I was very pleased with the praise; it gives me fuel to continue my work,” Marcandalli said.
“I remember the first Rudiger in Rome; he was a complete defender. I see myself in that, but I need to improve in some areas: he was aggressive and good with the ball.”
”I need to be the best version of myself. There will be important points at stake against Juve; we'll have to prepare well for this match.”
This weekend, Genoa take on UEFA Champions League-chasing Juventus at the Allianz Stadium, and Marcandalli will be hoping to help his side claim all three points.
Nigerian Roots and International Future
Alessandro Marcandalli is one of many players with dual nationality, born in Italy to an Italian father and a Nigerian mother.
While he has already represented Italy at the under-20 level, he has yet to earn a senior cap. As such, he remains eligible for the Super Eagles.
Marcandalli recently admitted that he could consider switching allegiances to Nigeria, though he has yet to reach a final conclusion.
The 24-year-old defender is likely to wait and see how his career progresses before deciding whether to make the switch.
