Ex Juventus & Roma Fullback Heaps Praise On Inter Milan Veteran: “Reads Plays Better Than Buongiorno” | OneFootball

Retired Italian footballer Federico Balzaretti highlights what makes Inter Milan defender Francesco Acerbi so efficient at the back.

The Nerazzurri stalwart has only recently made his return to action, but immediately showcased his prowess in the big showdown against Napoli.

The 36-year-old managed to keep Romelu Lukaku in his pocket. This isn’t the first time he has prevailed in this duel against the Belgian giant, as it was a similar outcome when the latter was at Roma last season.

The two men could have collided this evening once again in the UEFA Nations League contest between Belgium and Italy.

But while the Red Devils called up the striker, Luciano Spalletti opted to leave him out Acerbi.

Instead, the former Napoli manager will be looking to rely on Alessandro Buongiorno this evening.

The former Torino man could clash heads with his club teammate Lukaku in what would be an interesting battle.

Federico Balzaretti Compares Inter Milan Veteran Francesco Acerbi With Napoli Defender Alessandro Buongiorno

For his part, Balzaretti recognizes Buongiorno’s great strength. Nevertheless, the former Udinese director insists Acerbi is much better when it comes to reading the game.

“I really like Acerbi. He has concentration and great leadership,” noted the 42-year-old in his interview with Cronache di Spogliatoio via FcInterNews.

“Many things change at Inter when he’s on the pitch.

“Buongiorno impressed me in the open field against Marcus Thuram. Keeping Thuram at bay means he has done an exceptional job.

“Acerbi and Buongiorno are extraordinary in one-on-one situations. When it comes to reading the game, the Inter veteran remains superior.

“On the other hand, the Napoli defender might be the absolutely strongest physically.”

Buongiorno was linked with a move to Inter in the summer, but eventually signed for the Partenopei.