Top 3 players capable of replacing Andrea Pirlo

#2 Claudio Marchisio - Juventus

The experienced Juventus vice captain is already a main fixture for the "Gli Azzurri". He's been immense playing in front of the likes of Bonnucci, Chiellini, and Barzagli. His defensive contributions have also led to Pirlo having sufficient space to orchestrate the play.

Marchisio is a mixture of an attacking midfielder and a defensive midfielder; a proper central midfielder in other words. He's very good going forward and has the vision to see the final pass. On the other hand, he's a workhorse when it comes to his defensive contributions.

He acts as a shield for his back four , be it for Italy or Juventus. Intercepting and breaking down play is his major quality. Moreover, he's a textbook passer of the ball who often likes to play a one touch game. When given time and space, he's also a good long range shooter. Ever present at the heart of midfield, Marchisio will have to take over more responsibility when Pirlo isn't there. He's certainly capable of doing so, as he's shown that at Juventus so far.