Inter Milan midfielder Nicolo Barella feels that his teammate Marko Arnautovic is a top player and can help the Nerazzurri win.
The 26-year-old spoke to InterTV following the team’s 2-0 Serie A win over Lecce, via FCInterNews.
Italian international and former Cagliari midfielder Barella wore the captain’s armband for Inter this evening in the absence of usual captain Lautaro Martinez.
The 26-year-old crowned his performance with a goal.
It was a well-timed run, control, and composed finish from Barella.
But the captain-on-the-night’s goal would never have come about were it not for a brilliant piece of improvisation by striker Arnautovic.
The 34-year-old former Stoke City and West Ham United striker came up with a brilliant backheel. He assisted Barella, who found the back of the net for the second time this season.
This allowed Inter to tighten their grip on the match.
At 1-0 up, there was still a real sense that Lecce could have easily gotten back into it. But once Barella doubled Inter’s advantage things got a lot more comfortable.
Nicolo Barella Praises Inter Teammate Marko Arnautovic
Barella said of Arnautovic’s excellent assist that “I’m not surprised. As far as playing off the shoulder of the defense, he’s one of the best players I’ve played with.”
“In theory I should have been the one giving him the assist,” the 26-year-old continued.
“But we’re happy,” he said.
“We need everyone in this long league season, If we’re going to win the title, we’ll need everyone.”
As far as the title race with Juventus, Barella said that “We’re fighting for the title. And we’re lucky enough to be top of the table.”
“Now we want to stay on track and remain top,” he continued.
And of reacting to Wednesday’s Coppa Italia defeat at the hands of Bologna, Barella said that “It’s always a good feeling to win after a loss that was not deserved.”
