Inter Milan midfielder Nicolo Barella believes when the Nerazzurri are in top condition, all teams struggle to beat them.

The Italy international midfielder spoke to UEFA on a variety of issues including about what makes the Inter such a difficult team to beat.

“I think when Inter are in top condition any team will struggle to beat us. I think in the games against Benfica we were in our best form.

“The team and I are really satisfied so far but we are not there yet. We got one more hurdle to go before we can truly celebrate.

“Hearing that music [Champions League hymn] gives you the extra push” Nicolo Barella began.

Nicolo Barella Didn’t See Goal For Inter Milan Against Benfica

When asked to describe his opening goal against Benfica in the second leg Champions League quarterfinal at the San Siro, the Euro 2020 winner revealed he didn’t see where it ended up.

“I probably didn’t even get to see where it ended up. When I saw that it went past the goalkeeper, I turned around and went to celebrate.

“Some movements happen by instinct, and others you pull off by luck and skill. There’s a bit of everything here.

“It was pretty cool. I can still hear the roar of the San Siro the moment I scored that goal. When I score I always kiss my tattoo.

“It’s the face of my wife and daughters, so it evokes a lot of memories for me.

“Tenacity. Speed. Technique” is how Barella would describe the goal against Benfica.

Nicolo Barella joined Inter Milan in the summer of 2019 on an initial year long loan from Cagliari, with an attached obligation to buy with a four year contract to take effect once the move had been made permanent.

Since making the move the tenacious midfielder has featured 180 times across all competitions scoring 19 goals in the process, eight of which have come this season alone.

During these four seasons the player who turned 26 years old in February of this year, he has won four domestic trophies, including the Serie A title in 2021.

On November 5th 2021 Barella penned a contract extension with Inter Milan that keeps him tied to the club until the end of June 2026.