Marcandalli: Roma legend De Rossi tips Super Eagles-eligible defender to get big move soon

Roma legend Daniele De Rossi has praised Super Eagles prospect Alessandro Marcandalli for his impressive performances at the club, Afrik-Foot reports.

​Marcandalli has established himself as a regular at Serie A club Genoa this season. He started his career in the club’s youth system but, in search of regular senior football, moved on loan to Pontedera, Reggiana, and Venezia.

​However, this season he has proven to be a key player for the club, featuring in 21 league games and contributing two assists.

​The 22-year-old center-back played the full 90 minutes for Genoa in their 2-0 loss to Inter Milan on Saturday, giving a good account of himself despite the result. Marcandalli registered one interception, three clearances, four recoveries, 21 carries, and an 86% passing accuracy.

​The result against Inter Milan leaves Genoa in 15th place with 27 points after 27 games, just three points above the relegation zone.

​Nonetheless, after the loss, coach De Rossi had high praise for the young defender, admitting that Marcandalli has the talent to play at a top club at some point in his career.

​”Marcandalli is making great strides; he needs to acquire technical knowledge and is one of those players who can play for top-level teams. At certain levels, you also need great physicality,” De Rossi told Tuttomercatoweb.

​De Rossi’s words will mean a lot to Marcandalli, given that he grew up within the Italian football system and understands the iconic status of the former Roma captain.

​Alessandro Marcandalli Yet To Switch From Italy To Nigeria’s Super Eagles

​Alessandro Marcandalli is of dual heritage; he was born in Italy to an Italian father and a Nigerian mother. Consequently, he is eligible to represent either country at the international level.

​While he has played for Italian youth teams, he has yet to be called up to the senior squad, where competition for places is exceptionally high.

​In a recent interview, he expressed a willingness to switch allegiances, although he is yet to make a final decision. During the interview, he revealed his close ties with Nigeria and even mentioned his love for Jollof rice, a popular Nigerian delicacy.

​Like many players with dual nationality, it is likely the 22-year-old is waiting to see if an Italian call-up is imminent. However, if that does not materialize, a switch to the Super Eagles remains a strong possibility.

​With his talent, he would be a significant addition to the Nigerian setup, joining fellow young defensive talents like Calvin Bassey and Benjamin Fredrick.