One of Kristjan Asllani’s first coaches has said that the Inter midfielder is a phenomenon who will learn a lot from Marcelo Brozovic, according to a report in the Italian print media today.

Speaking during an interview with Tuttosport, Cristiano Filippi, who coached Kristjan Asllani as a youngster at Butese spoke very highly of the former Empoli midfielder.

He started by comparing his goal for Empoli against Inter at San Siro last season with one that he scored as a child for Butese.

“He was five years old. But even then you could see his talent. Do you know his first goal in Serie A against Inter? With us, despite his very young age, he jumped over three or four opponents and finished impeccably. It’s hard for a child of that age to score a goal like that.”

He then explained that opponents used to try and use older players to limit the impact of Kristjan Asllani but it never worked.

“After a series of our victories, the opponents began to set their sights on Asllani, trying to limit him by calling up children from 2001 and maybe even 2000. 

“But for him there was no problem, these markings were neither hot nor cold for him. His technique was always decisive, so much so that Kristjan scored every Sunday.”

Cristiano Filippi provided more details about how he used to show off his incredible ball control and the importance of the family unit that he has in place.

“Once he dribbled into the bar with a tray in his hand, without dropping anything at all. I also want to emphasise how he grew up in a serious family. Maybe his teammates went to bed late, even after midnight. 

“He didn’t, he slept early to prepare himself as best he could. He always had his head on his shoulders. And even now, if you talk to him, you will find a normal guy in his twenties, but who thinks like a guy in his thirties.”

He then added that he will be able to learn a great deal from being with Marcelo Brozovic at Inter.

“I think you still don’t realise what vision and tactical intelligence he has. He is a phenomenon. With Brozovic he will learn a lot, but he could easily play together with the Croatian. With Inter’s many games, there will certainly be an opportunity to see them together.”