Inter Milan midfielder Nicolo Barella feels that Italy are in the midst of a “new beginning” ahead of EURO 2024.

Speaking on the Azzurri’s official social media account, via FCInterNews, the 27-year-old gave his thoughts ahead of this summer’s tournament.

Italy are currently the reigning champions of Europe.

The Azzurri won the last edition of the Euros in 2021. They beat England on penalties in the final of the competition.

But a lot has changed since that tournament.

For one thing, Italy failed to qualify for the World Cup in Qatar. This represented an enormous disappointment after glory at the Euros – particularly as it was the second World Cup in a row they’d missed out on.

But now, Italy are looking to rebuild even stronger to retain their continental crown.

Nicolo Barella Hails Italy “New Beginning” Ahead Of EURO 2024

Perhaps the most notable change in the Azzurri setup is the change of coach.

Former Inter and Manchester City coach Roberto Mancini stepped down after the failure to secure a spot at the World Cup.

And the man to replace him was another former Nerazzurri coach – Luciano Spalletti.

Spalletti had just come off the triumph of guiding Napoli to their first Serie A title in over thirty years. And now he’ll be aiming to further crown his long career with a trophy with the national team.

It won’t be easy. But the veteran coach has a squad of players with plenty of quality.

Spalletti himself has made clear that Inter players will be the core of the team at the Euros.

And Barella is certainly among these. The former Cagliari midfielder was a key starter for Italy at the last Euros.

And if anything Barella will be even moreso this time around.

The Inter midfielder’s goal against Ecuador in a friendly match yesterday further shows this.

Spalletti tried out a new formation yesterday, a 3-4-2-1 shape. This resembles the style of play at Inter.

Barella commented that “Regardless of the formation, this is a new beginning for us.”

“We’re taking measures. There are always things to improve upon.”

“We’re creating a good group,” Barella said. “Made up of guys who want to work to help each other out.”