Former AC Milan coach Arrigo Sacchi feels that Inter have not been at their best in central areas in recent matches.
Speaking to Milan-based newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport in an interview published in today’s print edition, the former coach noted especially the dip in form experienced by key midfielders Marcelo Brozovic and Nicolo Barella.
Both Brozovic and Barella have had key roles to play in the Nerazzurri’s best performances this season, and by the same token the duo have dropped off along with the rest of the team in their recent slump in form.
The Croat missed out entirely on the Serie A loss to Sassuolo through suspension, and his absence was sorely felt, but even upon his return to the team over the past two matches he has not had his usual influence.
Meanwhile, Barella has looked to have struggled with tiredness at times during the season, and yesterday evening’s goalless Coppa Italia semi-final first leg against AC Milan was the most glaring example of this yet.
Of the Nerazzurri’s midfield, Sacchi stated that “It’s their strongest position, and now we’re seeing that some players are not at their best.”
“Brozovic has looked subdued,” he went on. “Even Barella, who I like very much, is not performing as well as he could.”
“Consequently the possession is slower than usual and the team doesn’t move forward as it should,” he added. “Even the defense seemed a bit static to me – the Nerazzurri suffered in one-on-one situations.”
Sacchi continued that “Inter will be back on the pitch on Friday night against Salernitana at San Siro. A very difficult match that will precede their Champions League trip to Liverpool.”
He said that “This is a period in which you have to grit your teeth and manage your energy well. The coach will have to evaluate the strengths of all the players, and use them wisely.”
