Turkiye manager Vincenzo Montella considers Inter Milan playmaker Hakan Calhanoglu the best in the world at interpreting his playing position.
The 30-year-old started his career as an attacking midfielder. He also played as a left winger on some occasions in the past.
But since joining the Nerazzurri as a free agent in the summer of 2021, he has been gradually moving into a deeper role.
Simone Inzaghi initially deployed him as a box-to-box midfielder, before filling in for Marcelo Brozovic in the deep-lying playmaker role.
Since then, Calhanoglu has truly hit his stride, cementing himself as one of the finest midfielders in the world.
For his part, Montella insists his national team captain is the ultimate best in the world in the Regista role.
“Hakan has been the best in his role in the world in recent years,” said the Roma and Sampdoria legend in his interview with ANSA via TuttoMercatoWeb.
Montella had worked with Calhanoglu during their time together at AC Milan before reuniting with the midfielder when he took over the Turkish national team last year.
Turkiye Coach Vincenzo Montella Considers Inter Milan Midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu The Best In His Playing Position
The 50-year-old also weighed in on the Serie A title race. He joins a long queue of experts who believe Inter possess the strongest side in the league.
“On paper, Inter is probably the strongest team because they are well-tested.
“However, there are also others like Juventus and Milan and even Napoli who are always a very competitive side.
“So can never rule out surprises,” concluded the legendary striker.