Nevio Scala believes Fiorentina midfielder Riccardo Montolivo is set to emerge as Italy's new star.
Montolivo won a late call to the Italy squad this week.
"Montolivo is a player I really like," stated former Parma coach Scala. "I think this year will be the one which will see him finally mature.
"I'm not surprised by his recent important and decisive plays. The fact that he is now playing alongside a player like Zanetti has given him some responsibility.
"They are now the perfect combination, one of a great European club."