Latest news with #Barella
Yahoo
06-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Italy & Croatia Stars To Form The Core Of New-Look Inter Milan Midfield
Nicolo Barella and Petar Sucic will form the core of a new-look Inter Milan midfield next season under Cristian Chivu. This according to today's print edition of Rome-based newspaper Corriere dello Sport, via FCInterNews. Advertisement Inter Milan signed Petar Sucic from Dinamo Zagreb last month. The 21-year-old appeared in all of the Nerazzurri's matches at the Club World Cup. Whilst Sucic did not start any of the four matches, there was little doubt that coach Cristian Chivu was bedding him in. Chivu is ready to put his faith in the Croat. Barella & Sucic To Form Core Of New-Look Inter Milan Midfield PASADENA, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 17: Nicolo Barella #23 of FC Internazionale Milano warms up prior to the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group E match between CF Monterrey and FC Internazionale Milano at Rose Bowl Stadium on June 17, 2025 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by) According to the Corriere dello Sport, one of Sucic's biggest assets at Inter will be his well-roundedness. The Croatian international has plenty of technical quality. But he is also an imposing physical presence. The Corriere compare Sucic to one of his new teammates in this respect: Nicolo Barella. Advertisement Barella has become the beating heart of the Inter midfield over the last six years. The former Cagliari midfielder provides a bit of everything in the battle for central superiority. That is exactly the kind of profile that Nerazzurri coach Cristian Chivu wants. Rather than having specialized players in each position. Therefore, Sucic and Barella can perfectly meet the coach's needs in this respect. Meanwhile, veterans like Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Piotr Zielinski also have those qualities.


New York Times
26-06-2025
- Sport
- New York Times
The fast learning of Inter's youth saw off River Plate – Fluminense should be worried
Petar Sucic will learn a thing or two from Inter's experienced midfielders. Having joined the Champions League finalists earlier this month, Sucic, 21, came off the bench to assist Francesco Pio Esposito, 19, for their team's first goal in a 2-0 victory against River Plate in the Club World Cup on Wednesday. Advertisement Susic's eyes closely tracked the movement of his centre-forwards when he came on the pitch, but before that, it's likely they were focused on Inter's midfield as they secured their place in the knockout stage. Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Nicolo Barella aren't just a pleasure to watch, they can also be a helpful guide to Inter's youngsters when it comes to what they are doing with and without the ball. Against River, it was their off-ball runs from midfield that grabbed the attention. The midfield duo started ahead of Kristjan Asllani and constantly attacked the space, with Esposito and Lautaro Martinez up front complementing their movement. Barella and Mkhitaryan were usually one step ahead of their markers, Rodrigo Aliendro and Matias Kranevitter. Here, they are surging forward before Alessandro Bastoni picks his pass. Inter's left centre-back plays a long pass towards Denzel Dumfries and Barella's initial movement gives him the advantage over Aliendro. When Dumfries wins the aerial duel and controls the ball, Barella continues his forward movement and the right wing-back finds his run. Meanwhile, on the other side, Kranevitter leaves Mkhitaryan, choosing instead to protect the central space… … but the latter's run towards the back post becomes more dangerous when Barella progresses down the right wing. Kranevitter then moves to defend the back post, and Esposito realises that the space is in front of the defence — he smartly holds his run to offer Barella a cutback option. The Italy midfielder then plays the ball to Esposito… …. whose shot is blocked by the defence. In another example, Kranevitter is away from Mkhitaryan and looking to contest the second ball as Yann Sommer goes direct to Inter's centre-forwards. When Esposito heads the long ball towards the left side of Inter's attack, Mkhitaryan immediately pounces, with River's right-back, Gonzalo Montiel, hesitant because Federico Dimarco (out of shot) is in position to attack the space behind him. Montiel and Kranevitter are left in no man's land, and Inter combine quickly to attack the space behind River's right-back. Dimarco's threat down the left wing forces River's right centre-back, Quarta, to react, leaving his partner, Paulo Diaz, alone against Esposito. Mkhitaryan spots Esposito darting towards the near post with River's left centre-back moving with him, and attacks the space… … but Dimarco's cross doesn't reach him. As Sucic watched from the bench, Esposito's lessons were more hands-on. The forward, who only made his debut a couple of days ago against Urawa Red Diamonds, operated alongside Martinez, and there's probably no one better to learn Inter's centre-forward role from. Just like Martinez has been doing throughout the years, Esposito made the right runs, held the ball up and linked the attack. In this example, Bastoni chips the ball towards Esposito with Barella way behind his marker Aliendro. As Esposito chests down the ball and dribbles inside to switch the play towards Dumfries, Barella dashes forward to start his third-man run… … which allows him to breeze past Aliendro and attack the space behind River's left-back, Marcos Acuna. Dumfries finds Barella's run… … and the Italy midfielder returns the pass with a lovely backheel. Inter's combination down the right side takes out Aliendro and Acuna, which forces Kranevitter to defend the gap, leaving Mkhitaryan free in the process. Dumfries then plays the cutback to Mkhitaryan… … but River's centre-backs manage to block the midfielder's shot. The runs from midfield were vital to Inter's victory which allowed them to top the group. First, it was Mkhitaryan's off-ball run that led to Quarta's dismissal. Here, the Armenia midfielder dashes behind Giorgio Costantini, who replaced Kranevitter, as Dumfries plays the ball forward. Quarta thinks he is safe because Esposito is dropping from an offside position in front of him… … but the real threat is Mkhitaryan who is surging forward and capitalises on the centre-back's mistake. Mkhitaryan beats Quarta to the ball and the defender's late tackle forces River to continue the match with 10 men. Second, the runs from midfield led to Inter's first goal when Barella's replacement, Sucic, attacked the correct space. In the build-up to the goal, River's midfield three are all over the place because they are trying to mark their counterparts while pressing Inter's right centre-back, Matteo Darmian. As a result, Costantini is left in between Sucic and Mkhitaryan, and Darmian finds the latter. River's midfielders try to organise themselves as Mkhitaryan plays the ball wide to Carlos Augusto… … but the Armenian's movement drags Costantini wide and creates a gap, which Sucic attacks as Augusto plays the ball to Asllani. Asllani then finds Sucic between the lines… … and the Croatia midfielder plays the ball to Esposito… … who dribbles past the onrushing defender and slots it into the bottom corner. Esposito's brilliant performance and Sucic's impressive cameo showed that they have an understanding of how Inter operate in possession of the ball. They will continue watching and learning, like Asllani, who was previously the understudy to Marcelo Brozovic and Hakan Calhanoglu. Considering Inter's injuries during the Club World Cup, these strong performances from their younger generation are promising. More importantly, it's a step towards the side's rejuvenation this season. Inter's youngsters should keep their eyes open because the chances are coming. You can sign up to DAZN to watch every FIFA Club World Cup game for free.
Yahoo
23-06-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Barella reflects on Inter Champions League defeat and Inzaghi exit
Nicolo Barella has revealed that Inter's Champions League final defeat to PSG was a 'tough defeat' that will 'stay in our minds' but praised his side's ability to bounce back. Barella is currently a part of Inter's Club World Cup squad, the central midfielder starring in the Nerazzurri's opening two fixtures. Cristian Chivu's side fought from behind in both matches to claim a 1-1 draw and 2-1 victory against Monterrey and Urawa Red Diamonds respectively. MILAN, ITALY – MAY 18: Nicolo' Barella of FC Internazionale is challenged by Matias Vecino of SS Lazio during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and SS Lazio at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on May 18, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by) Speaking to DAZN, via TMW, Barella said that 'the phrase 'you always have to compete' is something I agree with 100%. It perfectly reflected last season. We didn't manage to win anything but it was a year that taught us a lot – both positive and negative. Now we want to bounce back and do our very best.' Champions League final defeat 'stings' – Barella Inter qualified for their second Champions League final in three years last season but once again fell short, as they were thrashed 5-0 by a dominant PSG side. Advertisement When asked to reflect on the final, Barella said: 'It'll stay in our minds – it's a loss that becomes a part of your journey in your career. It's a tough defeat that stings but in life, as in football, you need to know how to get back up and we've shown we can do that. 'We lost two league titles by a single point and lost two Champions League finals but, in-between, we've also won. We know that football is full of highs and lows and you always have to keep working harder to reach the point where you can compete for trophies. That's the mindset.' epa12148192 Players of Inter look disappointed as they greet their supporters after losing the UEFA Champions League final between Paris Saint-Germain and Internazionale Milano in Munich, Germany 31 May 2025. EPA-EFE/FILIP SINGER After the final, head coach Simone Inzaghi departed the club after four seasons in which he won two Coppa Italia and the 2023-24 Scudetto. Inzaghi was replaced by former Inter played Cristian Chivu, who will seek to emulate some of Inzaghi's success. Advertisement When asked how he took Inzaghi's departure, Barella replied: 'It was a strange piece of news. After four years, being together had become the norm. 'At Cagliari I experienced many changes in coach and even a bit at Inter. I know how it works but I can't say I'm used to it. 'The only thing I felt was the need to thank Inzaghi and his staff for four fantastic years – years of growth and strong emotions.' PASADENA, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 17: Cristian Chivu Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano reacts after the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group E match between CF Monterrey and FC Internazionale Milano at Rose Bowl Stadium on June 17, 2025 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by) However, Barella was full of praise for new head coach Chivu: 'I already knew him – we spoke a few times after training matches in Appiano when he was managing the Primavera side. 'I noticed his great empathy towards players – he understands what they need. Not every coach has that and it's an important quality. It's a tough time for us and he's giving us a huge boost. He's straightforward and eager to do well – there's a chance to achieve something special together.'
Yahoo
06-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Tudor backs favourite, Allegri-Dusan tension, Inter eyes Saudi move 🇸🇦🤑
All eyes tonight will be on the match between Italy and Norway, but as usual, the market takes the spotlight first. Not only Chivu to Inter and Kelly's official move to Juventus: there are many market news released during the day and below you will find some of the most important ones. Juventus, Tudor wants his protégé After Juventus' decision not to extend Renato Veiga's loan, who is set to return to Chelsea, the Turin club is looking for a replacement in defense. Among the names considered with greater insistence stands out that of Balerdi, central defender of Marseille, already coached by Igor Tudor in the past. Advertisement The Argentine born in '99, who also holds an Italian passport, is a profile appreciated by the former Bianconeri coach. His experience in Ligue 1 makes him a solid option for the backline. Goal reports this. Milan, Allegri thinks of Vlahovic Milan is particularly active in this phase of the transfer market, with the clear goal of adding a striker capable of scoring in double digits. The name at the top of the list, according to is Dusan Vlahovic. The Serbian center forward, leaving Juventus, has long been one of Massimiliano Allegri's favorites. The Tuscan coach, now involved in the Rossoneri project, has asked to deepen contacts with the Bianconeri. The first dialogues, already started for Cambiaso, could facilitate the negotiation. Inter, watch out for Inzaghi's Al Hilal Inter will be able to invest in the market again thanks to a positive balance sheet and revenues exceeding 500 million euros. To these incomes will be added those derived from possible sales. Among the fans' concerns is the risk that Inzaghi's arrival at Al-Hilal attracts profiles like Bastoni and Barella. Advertisement The former was already sounded out by Al-Nassr in January, who stopped in front of the 80 million request. Barella, on the other hand, said no to a monstrous offer of 30 million a year, but Al-Hilal insists. The Saudi club also targets Osimhen, Ederson and Theo, with the goal of delivering a team of stars to Simone Inzaghi by June 18 for the Club World Cup. Repubblica reports this. Napoli, new name for the wing Antonio Conte has clear ideas about the future Napoli: the club is ready to announce the arrival of Kevin De Bruyne at the beginning of next week. The club aims to complete the squad with seven more additions, to best face the four competitions scheduled. Today's edition of Il Mattino reports this. One of the coach's priorities is a right winger capable of providing width and coverage along the entire flank, in support of Di Lorenzo. At the top of the list is Raoul Bellanova, protagonist of a positive season with Atalanta. Purchased for 25 million, he could only leave in the face of a significant offer. Roma, Lucumí liked for defense Roma has targeted Jhon Lucumí to strengthen the defensive department, considering him a primary objective. The Colombian center-back is valued at around 20 million euros by Bologna, which has already rejected lower proposals. TMW. reports this. Advertisement However, it seems complicated that the Emilian club decides to sell both Lucumí and Beukema in the same transfer window. The next few days will be decisive to understand if there will be room for negotiation. The situation remains evolving. Lazio-Castellanos, will it be goodbye in the summer? Taty Castellanos is not among Lazio's untouchables and could leave the club in the summer. According to the club would be willing to consider offers starting from 30 million euros to reinvest for a striker with different characteristics. Castellanos himself seems to consider the idea of a change of jersey, evaluating possible alternatives. The first inquiries have come from the Premier League and Saudi Arabia, but so far without concrete developments. Only concrete proposals could start the negotiation for the farewell. Fiorentina, is Dodo's renewal complicated? Fiorentina has started contacts for the renewal of Dodo's contract, expiring in 2027, but the Brazilian full-back has not yet provided an answer. The club's proposal includes a salary adjustment only at the end of the agreement, an option that does not fully convince the player. The situation is therefore at a standstill, as Il Corriere dello Sport reports. Advertisement This uncertainty has attracted the interest of several European clubs, including Barcelona, Milan and Inter, ready to monitor the evolution of the case. In the last few hours, Juventus has also entered the race for the full-back. Dodô's future therefore remains open to possible developments. This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇮🇹 here. 📸 Alessandro Sabattini - 2025 Getty Images
Yahoo
01-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Inter Milan Midfield Trio Caught Like A Deer In Headlights In 5-0 Champions League Final Loss Vs PSG
Inter Milan Midfield Trio Caught Like A Deer In Headlights In 5-0 Champions League Final Loss Vs PSG Inter Milan's midfield trio of Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Hakan Calhanoglu, and Nicolo Barella were caught like a deer in headlights against PSG. This is the view in today's print edition of Rome-based newspaper Corriere dello Sport, via FCInterNews. Advertisement Simply put, Paris Saint-Germain completely overran Inter Milan in midfield. The trio of Joao Neves, Vitinha, and Fabian Ruiz were dazzling with their pass-and-move style. They always seemed to be one step ahead of Inter as they moved the ball around with ease. Meanwhile, the rest of the PSG team supported their midfield very well. The pace of the Paris Saint-Germain back four was vital for covering the spaces and allowing the midfield to play with freedom. Then, the PSG forwards interchanged constantly and put pressure on the Inter defenders, closing off the spaces. Mkhitaryan, Calhanoglu & Barella Caught Out In PSG 5-0 Inter Milan Champions League Final MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 23: Nicolo' Barella of FC Internazionale in action during the coppa Italia Semi Final match between FC Internazionale and AC Milan at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on April 23, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by) All this proved to be too much for Inter's midfield trio. Advertisement Henrikh Mkhitaryan showed his age in a way that he had never done against Bayern Munich and Barcelona. Then, Nicolo Barella's moments of real class were few and far between. PSG did not give the 28-year-old any space, whilst he wasn't able to force the issue. And Hakan Calhanoglu had even less time and space on the ball. The Parisians made sure to constantly harass the former AC Milan and Bayer Leverkusen midfielder. Therefore, his passes were mostly sideways and backwards, and when he played the ball forward it rarely came off.