Former Torino and Udinese and current Azerbaijan head coach Gianni De Biasi believes that Inter midfielder Nicolo Barella has been the top player of the year.
Speaking to Italian broadcaster TMW Radio, De Biasi highlighted the 24-year-old’s work ethic and completeness as a player in naming him as the top footballer of 2021.
Barella has enjoyed his year, winning the Scudetto for the first time in his career as he helped Inter win their own first title in over a decade, before winning the Euros with Italy.
The 24-year-old has even seemed to improve this term under Simone Inzaghi, helping guide the Nerazzurri to top of the table after half a season gone.
De Biasi feels that this is enough to make Barella the standout footballer over the course of the year, especially considering his particular characteristics and attitude which have been a part of his success for club and country over the year.
“For me the player of the year is Barella,” he stated, “because I like players who leave everything on the pitch, who work to fit into the system and take responsibility.”
