Italy's national team has not been in great shape in recent years, with the failure to qualify for this summer's World Cup the moment that signalled a chance in direction was needed.
As a result, Roberto Mancini was drafted in to turn the fate of the 'Azzurri' around, with the former Man City and Inter boss opting for youth.
The latest youngster to be brought in to the senior squad is Sandro Tonali, an 18-year-old who plays for Brescia. The comparison in looks and club with Andrea Pirlo were inevitable, but some think he may also live up to the comparison on the pitch too.
"Sandro is worth the hype. I saw Pirlo come through the Brescia system and break in to the first team, and now I am watching Tonali." 'Gazzetta dello Sport' reporter Gian Paolo Laffranchi said.
"First up it's important to note that the comparison is valid, but there are differences. Pirlo was much better technically… but that's obvious.
"Tonali is a lot more robust than Pirlo was. He is very aggressive and a bit crafty. Despite his age he isn't naive and loves a crunching tackle.
"He is a leader through his actions, not because of his shouting and theatrics – a quiet leader, just like Pirlo. If there is one thing he needs to work on, it's shooting and getting involved in attacks. Sandro should shoot more."