Inter Milan 1-1 Atalanta – Italy Midfielder Praised For Assist But Media Claim ‘The Chaos Plays Tricks On Him’ | OneFootball

Nicolo Barella delivered a performance of two halves against Atalanta, the assist for Pio Esposito’s opener a genuine highlight, but the frenetic edge that has characterised his season continuing to undermine his overall contribution.

The Italian media were united in their verdict, awarding a unanimous 6 across all five outlets.

Corriere dello Sport captured the contradiction neatly, via L’Interista.

“Timely the assist for Pio, but the chaos continues to play tricks on him. Better in the second half, and perhaps he should have stayed on in the final stages.”

Inter 1-1 Atalanta – Barella Chaotic But Picks Up Vital Assist

Tuttosport offered an interesting wider context, noting that the assist came directly under the watchful eye of Italy coach Rino Gattuso, and drawing a link to Marco Verratti’s injury, which could open the door for Barella to play a more prominent role at international level.

The 6 is a fair if unspectacular reflection of where Barella finds himself at this stage of the season.

Indeed, influential enough to contribute meaningfully.

However, not yet back to the dominant form that made him one of Europe’s finest midfielders.

Gazzetta dello Sport 6 Corriere dello Sport 6 Tuttosport 6 TMW 6 L’Interista 6