Europe Praises Barella: New Matthäus with Unbelievable Shot Speed, Wished He Was English, Real Madrid Should Buy Him

Alessandro Bastoni and Nicolò Barella both found the back of the net, propelling Italy to a 2-1 comeback victory over Albania in their opening match of Euro 2024. This achievement marked a significant milestone for Inter Milan, as it was the first time in European Championship history that two Italian Inter players scored in the same match. Bastoni received the highest match rating from La Gazzetta dello Sport, while Kristjan Asllani, representing Albania, made two key passes, the most in his team. However, it was Barella’s spectacular goal that became the focal point of football discussions worldwide.

Barella’s performance was nothing short of extraordinary. With 108 passes and a success rate of 97.2%, he not only dominated the midfield but also scored his 10th goal for the Italian national team, surpassing Francesco Totti's career total of nine goals. The official Euro 2024 ball, “Fussballliebe” (Football Love), equipped with an embedded chip for data measurement, recorded Barella’s shot speed at an astonishing 95 km/h. European media marveled, “For human goalkeepers, this is an impossible task.”

The Rise of Nicolò Barella

Nicolò Barella’s journey over the past few years has been one of relentless improvement. His dedication and hard work have transformed incremental progress into a significant leap in quality. His recent contract extension before the European Championship demonstrated his loyalty and commitment to Inter Milan, which has endeared him even more to the fans, particularly in the Chinese-speaking regions, who have faced challenges and frustrations with the club’s management.

Barella, Inter’s vice-captain, embodies the qualities of a top-tier footballer: skill, determination, and exemplary character. Yet, for football commentators, Barella presents a unique challenge. Finding new superlatives to describe his performances has become increasingly difficult, as he consistently sets the bar higher with each game. European media outlets have been lavish in their praise, creating a narrative that Barella is almost otherworldly, akin to a character from "The Three-Body Problem" series. Even the most devoted Serie A and Italian fans find themselves in awe of the accolades he receives.

A New Matthäus

German football legend Jürgen Klinsmann described Barella as "the modern-day Matthäus," calling him a "phenomenon." Albanian sports officials acknowledged the prowess of players like Asllani and Ramadani, but conceded that facing an opponent like Barella was akin to battling a "monster." English football icon Paul Ince expressed regret that Barella was not English, noting, “The two Inter players were outstanding. The only regret is… why aren’t they English?”

In the context of British journalism, such praise is considered the highest form of compliment. Piers Morgan, a prominent commentator and winner of the 2023 British Sports Journalism Award, suggested that if England manager Gareth Southgate followed his advice, winning the Euro would be a mere formality. Morgan included Barella in his list of key strategies for success, equating him with other top-tier players like Kylian Mbappé.

Barella’s Value and Loyalty

One of the most poignant praises came from the Spanish newspaper Marca: “If Real Madrid needs a replacement for Modric, Barella is the best choice.” The report highlighted Real Madrid’s longstanding interest in Barella, noting that if he were to enter the market, they would make every effort to secure him, recognizing him as one of the best midfielders in Europe.

Inter Milan’s CEO, Giuseppe Marotta, received accolades for securing Barella’s contract extension before the Euro. Had the renewal been delayed until after the tournament, the club could have faced significant challenges in retaining him. The interest from wealthy clubs would have put Inter in a difficult position, potentially raising the cost of renewal or even leading to the loss of their vice-captain.

Despite the high market value of some Inter players, Barella stands out. His ability to attract the interest of top financial powers in football sets him apart. Yet, Barella chose to stay at Inter with a salary that many, including the frugal Inter fans, consider modest for a player of his caliber. His willingness to renew his contract until 2029, for an annual salary of €6.5 million, demonstrates his deep affection for the club.

A Rare Gem in Modern Football

The current state of Serie A and Inter Milan’s financial constraints make it challenging to retain world-class talent. Having a player like Barella, who is not only highly valued but also genuinely committed to the club, is a rare blessing. Barella’s loyalty, despite lucrative offers from top clubs, underscores his unique bond with Inter Milan. This connection is rooted in his lifelong love for the club, making him a cherished figure among the fans.

Barella’s performance against Albania, characterized by his incredible shot speed and overall dominance, solidifies his status as a top-tier midfielder. His ability to combine technical skill with physical prowess makes him a formidable presence on the pitch. As Euro 2024 progresses, Barella’s contributions will be crucial for Italy’s success, and his performances will continue to draw admiration from across Europe.

Nicolò Barella’s journey is a testament to his talent, dedication, and loyalty. His remarkable rise, characterized by consistent improvement and stunning performances, has made him one of the most respected midfielders in Europe. As the football world continues to celebrate his achievements, Barella remains a symbol of excellence and commitment. His story is a reminder that in a sport often driven by financial incentives, genuine passion and loyalty still hold significant value. Barella’s decision to stay with Inter Milan, despite the lure of more lucrative offers, reflects his deep connection to the club and its fans. As he continues to shine on the international stage, Barella’s legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of footballers.