Top Italian midfielder rejects top club after winning Nations League bronze

Italian midfielder, Marco Verratti has revealed that he is flattered by Pep Guardiola's comments about 'being in love with him.' The Paris Saint-Germain player revealed this after helping his country secure third-place in the UEFA Nations League tournament, with a comprehensive 2-0 win over Belgium on Sunday. 

The Paris Saint-Germain midfielder caught the eye of Manchester City coach, Pep Guardiola during the first-leg of their UEFA Champions League group stage encounter. Marco Verratti was instrumental in running the midfield as Mauricio Pochettino's men orchestrated a deserving 2-0 victory away at the Etihad Stadium. 

After that match in September, former Barcelona and Bayern Munich coach, Pep Guardiola was raving about the 28-year-old. However, Verratti has revealed that though he appreciates the high praises from Guardiola, he would prefer to play his whole career with Paris Saint-Germain. 

Verratti, who led Italy to Euro 2020 victory and has also been praised by Lionel Messi, also said that: "These are certainly words that please me. He is a person who understands football, who is good for football and one of those who gives us pleasure with football. So, yes, I am happy. I have a little time left. What I do know is that I will always stay here."