Even though Inter Milan eliminated Barcelona in a mammoth Champions League semi-final tie, Nicolo Barella had a rare night off.
Several domestic media outlets criticized the diminutive midfielder, as relayed by TWM.
Whether it was the pressure, fatigue, or something else, Nicolo Barella wasn’t his best version last night.
Despite being the only Inter midfielder capable of equaling Barcelona’s pace, he struggled in possession.
That’s a bit odd for a player of his caliber.
Nicolo Barella Falters in Inter Milan Victory vs Barcelona
Indeed, his passes often lacked precision, not to mention he lost the ball in a dangerous area early on.
Luckily, it didn’t backfire on Inter.
However, the 28-year-old made up for his clumsy moments with unparalleled energy and commitment.
Simone Inzaghi recognized Barella’s fighting spirit and refused to take him off despite several lapses of concentration.
And the former Cagliari star repaid that trust by running his socks off until the final whistle.
Even when things didn’t go his way, Barella refused to give in. Instead, he kept on moving, which is a trait of a true champion.
He flopped big time lost the ball almost 20 times. Very slow on the ball.
Mkhitaryan flopped, Barella no way…
If you are talking about fouling Yamal, go watch the video. He saved the team after Calchanoglu passed the ball to Yamal. Mobyzed, do you have something personal in your comment?
He made some mistakes and lost the ball in compromising situations that thankfully didn’t end in goals.
But I think his presence was more than important, and still our best midfielder last night. Even a tired Barella was better than Zielinski
Agreed. He might’ve made mistakes but he never stopped running. I think it’s a bit harsh to say Barella flopped here.