Thiago Silva: Verratti can be like Pirlo

Thiago Silva believes that Paris Saint-Germain team-mate Marco Verratti has the ability to become the new Andrea Pirlo.

Ever since he first came to prominence with hometown club Pescara, Verratti has been touted as the heir to Pirlo's throne as the premier playmaker on the planet.

Having spent the past three years playing alongside the 22-year-old midfielder at the Parc des Princes, Thiago Silva can fully understand why Verratti is being tipped for greatness.

"Marco is strong both on and off the pitch," the Brazil international told Goal. "He has a unique personality.

"He takes a lot of responsibility on the pitch, doing things that normally a midfielder wouldn't try to do. He can become one of the best players in the world, like Andrea Pirlo."