De Sciglio silences critics in Euro win vs. Spain

Italy's 2-0 victory over defending Euro champions Spain was yet another example of the Italians' dominant defending and ability to frustrate the Spaniards' momentum, while also flipping the switch and applying the offensive pressure when needed. The back line of Leonardo Bonucci, Andrea Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini anchored Antonio Conte's 3-5-2 formation in usual fashion, but the Juventus trio received stellar defensive support from their Milan counterpart, Mattia De Sciglio.

Positioned as Italy's left wing-back, De Sciglio put in arguably one of his greatest performances ever for either club or country, and finally displayed the discipline and potential everyone has been expecting from the Rossoneri youngster.  Not only did De Sciglio make a case for himself to start in Italy's quarterfinal matchup against Germany, his standout performance only boosted the appeal from several top teams chasing the 23-year old's signature away from Milan.

From the start of the match, as Italy created chance after chance within Spain's final third, De Sciglio played the true winger role in supplying Italy's attack with service from the left side.  His attacking play, while virtually nonexistent at Milan, contributed heavily to the quick pressure the Azzurri forced upon their opponents for most of the first half.  But he did not let his defensive duties suffer.

With Spain's David Silva lined up in more of a right wing position, De Sciglio was tasked with shutting down one of the more quick-minded and experienced players on the pitch, let alone the Spanish squad. Just as Italy's BBC kept Spain's target man Alvaro Morata frustrated and out of the game, De Sciglio did a phenomenal job in isolating Silva and not allowing the Manchester City man any simple path behind the Azzurri's back line.  Especially towards the latter parts of the match, as play remained in Italy's half, De Sciglio stood his ground and had a superb tackle for every attack the Spanish side attempted.

Should De Sciglio continue with this fantastic form and play, the demand for Milan' s fullback will sure come from more than just teams within Serie A.  Whether it's offers from England or offers from former Rossoneri managers (cough cough), Milan will again be faced with the dilemma of cashing in or staying invested with home-grown talent.