Nicolo Barella is playing way beyond his years at Inter, according to the Nerazzurri’s former midfielder and coach Gianpiero Marini.

Barella has produced another spectacular season under Antonio Conte, scoring three goals and providing 10 assists in all competitions so far.

The 24-year-old had played in every fixture for the Nerazzurri this season until Sunday, when he missed the clash with his former club Cagliari due to suspension.

Speaking to Radio Marte today, Marini said: “It’s difficult to find someone as good as Barella at his age.

“For me, he’s among the best midfielders in the world.”

Marini, who also coached Inter to the 1994 UEFA Cup after four years in charge of the Primavera, also offered his views on why Inter started this season so slowly.

Antonio Conte’s side had a very short pre-season last summer after making it all the way to the UEFA Europa League final, where they lost out 3-2 to Sevilla.

“They had a difficult start to the season because the club hadn’t had time to digest losing the final,” Marini argued.

“Inter got back on track though thanks to Conte, who has given the team solidity and clear ideas.”

Inter are now 11 points clear at the top of Serie A and on course for their first league title since 2010.