Former Inter defender Massimo Paganin analysed the Nerazzurri’s important 3-0 win over Sassuolo earlier today whilst speaking with Italian broadcaster InterTV after the game.
“Conte’s team had a great game for all the 90 minutes. The two forwards worked hard, the defensive line also. The match was prepared very well from a tactical point of view and won deservedly.
“Remember Inter from last season. Without the trequartista they leave more room for the opponents, but they did very well. Conte prepared for it very well.
“Never questioned the match. They conceded the minimum necessary. A team in complete control of the match.”
He commented on coach Antonio Conte’s decision to play Italian midfielder Nicolo Barella deeper in the system.
“That is the position that Brozovic usually occupies, Barella can do it. He can go to close down well and read the situations well.
“They had a much more balanced team than the other matches. Sassuolo almost never managed to pass up the pitch. Exceptional work of the two forwards.”
The Italian touched on the Nerazzurri’s attitude and approach to the game.
“I liked the game because of the availability that the players gave. The difference between Wednesday and today was felt.
“This is the team that all the fans like and that they would like to see every time on the pitch. This was a difficult game for Inter, the signal is that the team is there. A strong signal.”
Paganin spoke about Nerazzurri defender Milan Skriniar and his position in the squad.
“For Skriniar it is important to play. With his structure he needs to play to get in shape. The attention and concentration he put into the game are the ones we knew. He is getting back into shape, it is very difficult to miss so much. He is a guarantee.
“The clean sheet was the result of a tactical shrewdness and mental attention that made the difference. If you want to make an important season this kind of attitude is what you need. It has changed in a short time. When you see the players so motivated, I think the fans are happy.”
Finally, Paganin spoke about the certainties that the defensive trio of Alessandro Bastoni, Milan Skriniar and Stefan de Vrij gives.
“For various reasons all of them have not always been able to play. When you change a lot, you don’t find the synergy you need.
“They are the three that give the most guarantee, the others will have to adapt and try to take their place away. They play for the choices of the coach.”
Inter’s win means that they are now second in the league table after nine games, sitting on 18 points, tied with the Neroverdi.
They are two points behind league leaders AC Milan, who can extend their lead with a win over strugglers Fiorentina tomorrow afternoon.
The Nerazzurri’s next game is a crucial Champions League fixture against German side Borussia Monchengladbach, who held Inter to a drew in their last meeting.
