Inter Milan midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu feels that he’s gotten off the mark with a strong start in Serie A this season.
Speaking after the Turkish national team’s EURO 2024 qualifying draw with Armenia, as reported by FCInterNews, the 29-year-old briefly commented on his start to the club season with the Nerazzurri.
Midfielder Calhanoglu came into this season with more expectations on his shoulders than ever at Inter.
Last season, the Turk found a new role in the team. During injury absences for Marcelo Brozovic, Calhanoglu played in the Croat’s customary regista position.
And far from being only a temporary emergency solution, Calhanoglu shone in the role.
So much so, in fact, that the former AC Milan and Bayer Leverkusen midfielder was often first-choice even when Brozovic was fit.
This summer, therefore, the Nerazzurri sold Brozovic. The 30-year-old being allowed to leave and join Al-Nassr would have seemed almost unthinkable just a few months ago, but the sense was that Calhanoglu has “replaced” him.
Moreover, Inter handed the Turkish international a long-term contract extension until the end of June 2027.
This new four-year deal also makes Calhanoglu the Nerazzurri’s highest earner, at least for the time being.
Inter Milan Midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu Off To A Strong Start In Serie A
Calhanoglu has scored once already this season, from the spot against Fiorentina.
The Turk has yet to score or assist a goal from open play so far. But there is little matter in that – that is no longer Calhanoglu’s primary role in the team.
Rather, the 29-year-old has become an expert at setting the tempo for his team.
Calhanoglu’s technical ability and eye for a pass have given the Nerazzurri a newfound directness.
With three wins from three so far in the league, Inter have enjoyed an eye-catching start to the campaign. And Calhanoglu has been at the heart of everything that the Nerazzurri have done.
“It’s been a good start to the club season for me,” the Turk said.
“I’m very hungry and motivated,” he added.
