Former Juventus captain Giorgio Chiellini describes Inter Milan star Alessandro Bastoni as one of the best defenders in the world.

The 39-year-old is plying his trade at LAFC in Major League Soccer. However, he already retired from international duty.

Chiellini lifted the Euro 2020 trophy as the Italy captain. But sadly for the Azzurri, they failed to reach the 2022 World Cup. This prompted the retirement of the iconic defender.

Nowadays, Alessandro Bastoni has emerged as Chiellini’s natural heir as a left-footed centre-back.

The 24-year-old has been a stalwart at the back for Inter for several years. He has cemented himself as a starter in Luciano Spalletti’s starting formation.

Chiellini only has words of praise for his Italy successor, identifying him as one of the best worldwide. He also tips Italy to secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup.

“Italy will play in the 2026 World Cup and will arrive at the 2028 European Championships with a mature squad,” said the LAFC defender in his interview with Planetwin365 via FcInterNews.

“I know Alessandro well, he is one of the strongest central defenders around and for me, he is among the best in the world.

Juventus Legend Giorgio Chiellini Describes Inter Milan Star Alessandro Bastoni As One Of The Best Defenders In The World

“He is a player that Italy will be able to count on for many years, he just needs to continue working and maintaining the desire to improve.

“I also met Giorgio Scalvini in my last retreat with the national team, he seemed like a lad with great potential.

“The more he and Bastoni play together, the better it will be. Knowledge helps a lot with the fundamental details. I hope they become an important defensive pair for the future of Italy.”