Barella: "Beating Juventus made us aware of our strength"

APPIANO GENTILE – Five games remain before the season comes to an end, and Inter are currently focusing on their trip to Crotone on Saturday. Ahead of the match, Nicolò Barella had the following to say to Sky Sport:

Is fatigue starting to kick in?“A little bit, yes. But this is inevitable: it’s been a unique year where we’ve played a lot and practically never stopped. However, our objective is more important than anything.”

Are you experiencing mental fatigue or feeling the pressure? Inter haven’t performed particularly well in recent matches…“We haven’t always played particularly well, but results are what we need. We all know what our objective is, and we need to try to pick up wins. If we do so after playing well, all the better.”

Did you expect the league table to look like it currently does at this stage of the season?“We had the same objective last season. We lost a final and this galvanised us within. Together with the Coach and Club, we transformed the experience into something positive. This year, we’re in the position we wanted to be in.”

To what extent have Inter become aware of their means in the past two seasons?"We’ve been accused of being defensive. However, the truth is we’re a well-balanced side that has found an identity. Previously, we were perhaps a bit more adventurous and conceded a few more goals. Now, we’re a well-organised unit with midfielders and strikers that can decide matches. This is why we’re in a calm frame of mind.”

What does Coach Conte keep repeating?"The Coach doesn’t change, he’s always the same. Even if we achieve our objective, the day after will be the same as the day before. He's our leader.”

How much have you matured as a player?“I’m feel much more confident in my abilities. I manage myself and take advantage of my opportunities better. Training with great champions has helped me, I’ve studied them and improved by taking inspiration from them.”

What’s one quality you admire about both Brozovic and Eriksen?"As regards Christian, definitely his quality and elegance. He’s someone who’s able to play the ball where he wants it to go. Stefano Sensi is the player who is closest to him in terms of style. As for Brozovic, he focuses on making us play well. Myself and others concentrate on making runs forward…”

You’ve often found yourself in the vicinity of Lukaku and Lautaro and been in and around the area…“We always have the same spirit, even when Alexis or Pinamonti are on the pitch. Romelu and Lautaro help each other to play better. The Coach has provided us with solutions, I play the ball forward and they’re good at scoring goals. That's what they take care of.”

What has been the most important moment of the season?“My goal against Juventus was a very exciting moment. That was the match that made us aware of our strength. Beating the team that had dominated for years was important…”

This summer will also be eventful: the Euros are coming up…“If the Head Coach calls me up, I’ll be ready. We’re a great team and group. Mancini has done really well. We’ll be ready and will try to do our best for both ourselves and the fans.”