10 June 2013
Youth academy graduate Luca Marrone is a perfect example that with skill and dedication, you can effectively cover more than one position.
After spending 12 years in the Juventus youth system, Marrone’s versatility has now helped him grow into an important cog in Antonio Conte’s title winning squad.
The Italian youth international is usually deployed in the centre of defence at club level but then operates as a midfielder for the national under-21 side, who are currently taking part in the European championship in Israel.
The 23-year-old has been utilised effectively by the manager and was never merely thrown on in the dying stages of matches, as shown by his eight starts in ten seasonal appearances for the Bianconeri.
It appears as though Marrone is striving to emulate the role currently occupied by Leonardo Bonucci in the side. Much like his senior compatriot, the youngster plays in the heart of the defence and builds attacks from the back, a notion supported by his 449 completed passes at success rate of 91.8%.
However, he has also proved extremely efficient in his principal role of breaking down opposition offensive moves, winning over 72% of challenges contested.
The highly-rated midfielder has so far showcased the values and qualities developed from his time in the youth system, abilities that will no doubt enable him to shine for both club and country for many years to come.
