Barella names one man who helped him thrive at Inter Milan

Inter Milan talisman Nicolo Barella has expressed his gratitude to his manager Antonio Conte for helping him improve as a player.

Barella joined Inter Milan in 2019 as an uncut diamond, but Antonio Conte has made sure to shape his edges and make him one of the most highly-rated midfielders in Serie A.

Former Cagliari starlet has started for Inter in each of their three Champions League matches this season, adding another six starts in Serie A.

The 23-year-old has not only established himself as a permanent fixture at the Giuseppe Meazza but is also one of Roberto Mancini’s most-trusted assets in the Italy national team.

While enjoying a rise to stardom in Lombardy, Barella has attracted interest from several of Europe’s top clubs, including Chelsea and Manchester United.

However, the Italian midfielder is enjoying his life under Conte, who he sees as a key figure to help him grow and become the player he is today.

“The mezzala acts as a link between attack and defense – I play that role in my own way,” Barella said, as relayed by Football Italia.

“Here at Inter, a midfielder must know how to play both phases. I want to be the player the coach asks me to be.

“He has helped me this year. I feel I have grown in managing the different matches. Now, I know when to enter the box, when to wait or make the decisive play.”