Ranking the 5 best Italy players this year (2021)

#3 Federico Chiesa (Juventus)

Italy star Federico Chiesa in action for Juventus

Touted as Italy's next big thing, Federico Chiesa announced his arrival to the world with an electric display at Euro 2020. Despite being used off the bench, the Juventus winger scored two goals in the knockout stages that were not only stunning to watch but also of crucial importance. He was eventually named in the Euro 2020 team of the tournament.

Chiesa was also one of the very few bright spots in a horrific 2020-21 season for Juventus. He made 43 appearances, scoring 14 times and assisting ten goals for the Bianconeri while catching the eye with his direct dribbling and penetration. At 24, he is expected to make another big jump in 2022.

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#2 Gianluigi Donnarumma (Paris Saint-Germain)

Gigi Donnarumma is the latest of Italy's world-class keepers

What a year it has been for Italy's superstar shot-stopper Gianluigi Donnarumma. It began with him being named Serie A's Goalkeeper of the Year for 2020-21 after keeping 14 clean sheets to help AC Milan to a second-place league finish. Donnarumma then starred as Italy won Euro 2020. He was named Player of the Tournament after coming out on top in two consecutive penalty shootouts against Spain and England in the semifinal and final respectively.

The 22-year-old followed it up by sealing a dream free transfer to French giants PSG. Despite a stuttering start to life in Paris, Donnarumma ended the year on a high by winning the Lev Yashin Trophy for best goalkeeper of the year at the Ballon d'Or gala.

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#1 Jorginho (Chelsea)

Jorginho enjoyed a stunning year for Chelsea and Italy

Despite the intense debate around his Ballon d'Or candidature, there is no denying that Jorginho was absolutely sensational in 2021. The playmaker's influence extends beyond stats and numbers and his importance isn't measured in goals. He was the engine of teams that won the two biggest trophies of the year - Italy's Euro 2020 win and Chelsea's Champions League triumph.

Calm, composed and assured in possession, Jorginho offers a balance and fluidity that is reminiscent of Spain's great midfielders of the past. It is no surprise that Chelsea's recent hiccups have coincided with the 30-year-old's poor form. Nonetheless, Jorginho's relaxed, languid effectiveness continues to provide an extra dimension to Chelsea and Italy's combative and hard-nosed approach.