I don't underestimate him but the system is bigger than him. 5-6 technical mids, most who could play SS or CM when needed. Italy actually did a good job using a similar system despite having players who aren't trained in it.
RE; Treq. Prandelli had to use Montolivo because a) there is no current one of quality.
b) to compensate for Pirlo and Cassano's lack of mobility.
For 2014, a midfield of -
Striker
Insigne-----Giovinco
Veratti-----Marchisio
DDR
-could boss most teams.