Bartesaghi Stars for Italy U21: Two Assists in 4-0 Win Over North Macedonia
Davide Bartesaghi continues to impress away from Milanello. The young Milan full-back, called up for the Italian Under-21 National Team, was one of the standout performers in the emphatic 4-0 victory over North Macedonia, registering a brace of assists. It was a display full of personality from the Rossoneri left-back, who influenced the attacking play of the Azzurrini with quality and consistency throughout the match.
A Versatile Player with Huge Potential
Bartesaghi is far more than a conventional left-back. As he himself explained in an interview from the national team camp: “Wearing the Milan shirt and the Italian national team shirt is a huge responsibility. I always try to make myself available for the team. I can play as a full-back in a back four or as a wide centre-back in a three-man defence, trying to be as versatile as possible.”
This tactical flexibility makes him a valuable asset for Massimiliano Allegri, who can deploy him in multiple positions at Milan — left-back, left wing-back or even as a wide centre-back. A modern profile, still developing, but with significant room for improvement and an exemplary mindset.
Disappointment Over Senior National Team Snub
There is, however, a bittersweet note to the young Rossonero’s week. Bartesaghi had been hoping for a call-up to the senior Italian National Team from head coach Rino Gattuso, who ultimately chose not to include him in the squad. The decision left a tinge of disappointment, particularly since the player had attended a dinner with Gattuso and other potential call-ups a few weeks earlier, raising expectations.
Many Milan fans expressed surprise at the omission, believing the young Rossonero deserved a chance with the senior side given his improving performances for both Milan and the Under-21s.
The Baldini–Allegri Comparison: The Power of Positive Thinking
In his interview from the Azzurri camp, Bartesaghi drew a fascinating comparison between U21 coach Silvio Baldini and Milan manager Massimiliano Allegri. According to the young defender, the two share the same mental approach: “Baldini, just like Allegri at Milan, always asks me to stay positive even when things aren’t going well, to give my all especially in difficult moments, because that’s when you find out who you really are.”
Words that reveal a remarkable maturity for such a young player. Bartesaghi is described as a consummate professional, level-headed, aware of the high standards demanded at Milan and determined to earn his place through daily hard work. A young man who does not let off-pitch distractions get in the way, supported by a caring and attentive family.
His future looks bright: with this mentality and Allegri’s guidance, Bartesaghi has everything it takes to become a mainstay on Milan’s left flank for years to come.
