In an interview in today’s print edition of Gazzetta dello Sport, Cagliari president Tommaso Giulini has discussed Nicolo Barella’s exit from the club over the Summer as the Italian international left to join Inter.
“Barella was like a fifth child to me in these past few years. I was so sorry to have to sell him. After losing him I wanted to build an even stronger midfield. The money from his sale helped us out a lot. I thank him for what he has done for us, and all the Cagliari supporters should do the same. They should thank Inter too, who thought they had paid too much” he explained.
Giulini then spoke on how Radja Nainggolan’s return came about as the Belgian returned on loan from Inter.
“I called him in July, I told him I wanted to make a strong team and asked if he was willing to help me. He told me he wanted a month to try and convince Conte and if he could not, he would join. He kept his word.
“He has given a huge injection of technical quality and personality to the whole team. He is a leader and has made an impact similar to that of Giga Riva when he was at Cagliari.”