Albania international Kristjan Asllani has waxed lyrical about his Inter clubmate Nicolo Barella ahead of his nation’s Euro 2024 curtain-raiser against Italy. In an interview with Sky Sport Italia, the Albanian named his Gli Azzurri counterpart ‘one of the best midfielders in the world.’
“At this moment, Barella is one of the best midfielders in the world. Italy have a very strong squad. I consider them to be one of the best in circulation.” the Inter playmaker said.
“If Barella doesn’t play, there will be another very strong player who we respect. Having said that, we must not step onto the field with any fear.
“I do hope Nicolò does play because I like to face teammates, but above all, it will mean he is fully fit and that is what I hope for him.”
Asllani and Barella share the dressing room at Inter, but they’ll be on the opposite side of the spectrum when Italy and Albania lock horns on Saturday. Drawn together in a ‘group of death,‘ alongside Croatia and Spain, both teams desperately need a positive start to bolster their progression hopes.
Barella is facing the race against time to make Luciano Spalletti’s line-up at the start of Italy’s title-defending campaign. The Inter talisman has been struggling with fitness issues since the backend of the Nerazzurri’s 2023/24 Scudetto-winning season.
The 26-year-old was a crucial component of Simone Inzaghi’s side last term. If the Inter midfielder returns to full fitness soon, he should play an equally significant role for Italy at the upcoming Euro 2024. But if he fails to make himself available for the opening game, his teammate Davide Frattesi will swoop in.
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