I was very much against signing Elia, as several others were, but I dont see the reason of bothering to be negative about someone who simply does NOT play at all, and I disagree with your assertions about his character, we dont know him and shouldnt project traits on him, he might be working as hard as he can but it isnt simply enough (he was bought for system system we dont play anymore, besides the part of being good enough or not, and clearly he isnt, atleast for Conte). Doesnt mean he is somehow unambitious and not driven enough as you put it. Mistake was signing him, him not kicking up of a fuss and being a bitch about lack of time play publically is a major plus, not something to hold against him.
And well duh, being a top professional in top football is a huge privelige and luxury, regardless of he is playing or not, he is more then well off. But needless to say I very much doubt he thinks his sitaution is nice...He could be in lesser club and less pay, but still well off and playing regurarly, and retaining his NT spot. But instead he is now forgotten in his country and will miss the coming euro schampionship.