Ex Inter Milan Captain Insists Nerazzurri Star “The Best Defender In Italy” Despite Improvement Of Napoli Defender | OneFootball

Andrea Ranocchia has identified Inter Milan star Alessandro Bastoni as the best defender in Serie A ahead of Napoli’s Alessandro Buongiorno.

During a comprehensive interview with FCInterNews, the former Nerazzurri center-back discussed numerous topics, including a thrilling Scudetto race.

“Yes, it’s a very open league, I don’t know if this has ever happened after 12 matchdays,” he said.

“I think it’s also exciting. No team at the top is showing dominance over the others.”

However, Ranocchia insists Inter remain the favorites to defend the crown.

“In my opinion, Inter remains the strongest, with the greatest chances of finishing ahead of everyone.

“But we’ll see, it’s still a long way to go and there are teams with great quality.

“I think it’s an open league because there are still so many games to be played.”

He also rubbished the idea of Inter having different approaches in the UEFA Champions League and Serie A.

“I think it’s a bit of a coincidence, there’s no difference in approach between the Champions League and the league games.

“The fact that more goals are being conceded this year is also due to the increasing number of matches some players are playing.

‘They don’t have any rest even in the summer, and fatigue and focus start to slip.

“But the squad is very strong and can go far in all competitions.

“Even this year, they’ll be the team to beat, although it’s true that other teams have strengthened and started well.

“But after 12 matchdays, it’s still early to make predictions.

Andrea Ranocchia Insists Inter Milan Star Alessandro Bastoni Is The Best Defender in Serie A

Ranocchia believes Inter could take advantage of top European clubs’ struggle to secure Champions League glory.

“Absolutely, many big teams are struggling, while Inter is having a good run,” he said.

“The tournament is always tough, and with this new format.

“We’ll need to see what happens as the games go on, as it’s the first time for this competition.

“It will change a lot for everyone. But Inter has such a strong and deep squad that they can go far.”

Meanwhile, he talked about Alessandro Bastoni and his rise to stardom, saying he’s better than Napoli’s Buongiorno.

“Buongiorno played an incredible game again on Sunday night. He’s definitely a player in growth and will be important for the Italian national team.

“But for me, right now, Bastoni is the best defender in Italy and among the best in Europe for his age, physicality, technique, and potential.

“Let’s just say we’re calm for the national team. I don’t know if Buongiorno could be a regret for Inter.

“The various club situations caused some problems, but I believe Inter is well-equipped in all departments.”