Pisilli's Azzurri Buzz: Starstruck by Tonali and Barella on World Cup Trail

Imagine being a nipper in Rome, eyes wide at the 2010 and 2014 World Cups, dreaming of pulling on the Azzurri shirt. Fast forward, and Niccolo Pisilli, the AS Roma midfielder, is living that dream at 21. Back in the Italy squad after an 18-month wait since his debut under Luciano Spalletti in October 2024, he's buzzing for the World Cup play-offs.

As reported by Peter Young at Football Italia, Pisilli's chatting to Rai Sport like he's your mate down the pub, spilling on his heroes and Italy's big hopes.

From Giallorossi Grit to National Team Nod

It's been a proper breakthrough season for Pisilli at Roma. The lad's been clocking more minutes in 2025-26, proving he's no mug when the gaffer calls. "Nothing's really changed," he shrugs off the hype. "Just takes time to gel with a new boss's ideas. Stay ready, and when chances come, grab 'em."

Now, he's in the mix for Thursday's play-off semi against Northern Ireland in Bergamo. Italy haven't sniffed a World Cup since 2014 – a 12-year drought for a nation that lifted the trophy beating France in 2006. Oof, that's longer than some players' careers!

Pisilli was just 10 last time the Azzurri were there. No wonder he's grinning ear-to-ear: "It's a massive pride to be back. Those old tournaments? Pure magic."

Learning from the Big Boys: Barella and Tonali

Here's where it gets juicy. Growing up, Pisilli had his telly heroes: Nicolo Barella bossing midfield for Inter, and Sandro Tonali exploding at AC Milan before his Newcastle stint. "I watched them loads," he admits. "Now? Dream chance to pick their brains up close."

Picture it: the kid from the stands sharing a huddle with these midfield maestros. Barella's tenacity, Tonali's vision – it's like a masterclass in a tracksuit. And with Italy's squad packed with top talent, Pisilli's spot on: "We're a proper strong group. Only the best are here."

World Cup Fever: Calm Heads, Big Hearts

Italy need to nail two wins for 2026 World Cup qualification. They've fluffed the last two tournaments – no knockouts since that '06 glory. Pressure's on, but Pisilli's got the vibe right.

"Balance is key," he says. "Stay calm, give 100%, know we can do it – but respect what's at stake." It's pub wisdom: don't get cocky, but back yourselves.

For Roma fans, it's a win-win. More minutes for their boy, and if he shines internationally, Claudio Ranieri (or whoever's in the dugout) will love it. Pisilli's rise mirrors Italy's reset – young blood mixing with experience.

Will he snag that second cap? Start against the Irish? Or just soak it up? Either way, this lad's journey's got us hooked. Forza Italia – and viva Pisilli!

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