The midfielder has been at the heart of PSG’s engine-room during their recent dominance, but his Azzurri boss claims he must look for a new environment
The talented midfielder has been accused by some observers of lacking consistency, but he has been largely impressive this season since overcoming the persistent groin problem which wrecked his last campaign and forced him out of Euro 2016.
Ventura has already declared his admiration for the former Pescara youngster and appears intent on building his Italy team around the 24-year-old after succeeding Antonio Conte.
But the 68-year-old hinted he believes Verratti would be better off returning to Serie A due to an apparent lack of competitiveness in Ligue 1.
That is despite the fact PSG are three points behind leaders Nice after dropping points in four league matches already this season.
“I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again; Verratti is absolutely a good thing for Italy,” he told Sky Italia.
“The problem is that he doesn’t play in Italy, but in France. The rhythms are different; the strength of his team is so high that he never gets put in difficulty.
Another player destined to be in the Italy reckoning for years to come is 17-year-old AC Milan goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma and Ventura is confident the teenager is set for “greatness”.
“The talk around Donnarumma is the same as when [Gianluigi] Buffon started,” Ventura added.
“They’re players who, without wanting to increase the pressure, are pre-destined for greatness thanks to their technical, physical and mental quality.
