YOUNG PLAYER OF THE SEASON
SERGEJ MILINKOVIC-SAVIC (LAZIO)
‘Mr 100 million’ – as La Gazetta dello Sport call him – has grown throughout 2017/18 into a player that Europe’s super clubs wildly covet.
Born with the frame of a basketballer but gifted the poise of a ballerina, this is a talent set that only Manchester United’s Paul Pogba can match.
Milinkovic-Savic’s brilliance on the left side of Lazio’s centre midfield has made him a young prospect without compare. This expert utilization by head coach Simone Inzaghi has been rewarded with 12 goals and three assists.
A stellar achievement for a 23-year-old. Highlights include a brace to inspire a comeback from 2-0 down at Atalanta, plus his breathtaking role even amid crushing defeat to Inter this weekend.
He really should be playing in the Champions League.
WORTHY MENTIONS
Patrick Cutrone (AC Milan)
There’s been a coming of age for the 20-year-old, who first joined Milan 12 years ago. The strong No9 scored 10 goals in 28 Serie A games as big names around him struggled.
Giovanni Simeone (Fiorentina)
Forms a promising attacking duo with fellow footballing progeny, Federico Chiesa. Scored the most out of the pair, with the 22-year-old Argentine – son of Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone – notching an impressive 14 times.
Lucas Torreira (Sampdoria)
A defensive midfielder of true promise is emerging amid the attacking adventure of head coach Marco Giampaolo’s gung-ho outfit. The 22-year-old missed only two top-flight fixtures in 2017/18 and is going to the World Cup with Uruguay.
