“Not The Same Player Anymore” – Adani Points To Midfield Shift After Inter’s UCL Win | OneFootball

Inter returned from their Champions League clash with Slavia Prague with another three points, but pundit and former Inter player Lele Adani focused his post-match analysis on the midfield, specifically criticising Piotr Zielinski as “not the same player” he used to be.

The Nerazzurri’s European form has impressed under Cristian Chivu, yet Adani argued that one key figure is struggling to reach previous levels.

Speaking on Viva El Futbol, via FCInter1908, Adani pointed directly to summer signing Piotr Zielinski.

“From my point of view Sucic is a starter, Zielinski is not the same as before: let’s give that as a headline,” he said, underlining his belief that the Polish international has not yet matched expectations at San Siro.

Adani Criticises Inter Star Zielinski But Praises Forwards

MILAN, ITALY – AUGUST 31: Piotr Zielinski of FC Internazionale is challenged by Jurgen Ekkelenkamp of Udinese Calcio during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Udinese Calcio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on August 31, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Adani also highlighted the tactical aspects of Inter’s play, particularly in the build-up to Lautaro Martinez’s third goal.

He explained how Marcus Thuram’s run and Alessandro Bastoni’s movement showed the fluidity in Chivu’s system, where defenders often step out to create extra numbers in wide areas.

“In Lautaro’s goal, it’s incredible how Thuram waits for Bastoni’s overlap,” Adani said.

Despite his concerns over Zielinski, Adani concluded that the overall system is working because “the two strikers make the team play.”