Inter Milan's Defensive Star Tops Key Euro 2024 Rankings: From Mascot to Mainstay in Three Years

In a thrilling and dramatic match, Italy managed to secure a 1-1 draw against Croatia, ensuring their place in the Round of 16 of Euro 2024. This match highlighted the impressive performances of several Italian players, with Nicolo Barella and Alessandro Bastoni standing out. According to updated statistics from various data agencies, these players have topped key performance charts, underscoring their significant contributions to the team.

Barella's Tireless Work Rate

Nicolo Barella has been a workhorse for Italy, covering an astonishing 13,000 meters in a single match. Over the course of the three group stage matches, he has run a total of 37.04 kilometers, placing him first among hundreds of players in the tournament. He has a substantial lead over the second-place runner, Hungary’s Andras Schafer, who has covered 35.96 kilometers. Barella’s relentless energy and stamina are well-recognized and expected by Italian media and fans alike.

Bastoni: The Defensive Pillar

Alessandro Bastoni has emerged as a crucial figure in Italy’s defense, currently leading the tournament in ball recoveries. Throughout the group stage, his role in the team has evolved, eventually solidifying his position as the central defender in Italy's backline. Initially, Bastoni struggled in a four-man defense, playing as the right center-back, which was not his usual position at his club, Inter Milan, where he is accustomed to playing as the left center-back in a three-man defense.

In the critical third group stage match against Croatia, Italy made a strategic shift to a 3-5-2 formation. This adjustment allowed Bastoni to play as the central defender in a three-man backline, flanked by Matteo Darmian on the right and Gianluca Frabotta on the left. This change was not explicitly noted in the official UEFA formation, but the heat maps and activity zones clearly indicated the tactical switch. Italian fans present at the Leipzig stadium could vividly perceive this formation change, more so than those watching on television.

Tactical Shift: The 3-5-2 Formation

In the 3-5-2 formation, the central defender plays a crucial role, often referred to as the "sweeper" or "libero." This position is vital for intercepting attacks, distributing the ball, and organizing the defense. Bastoni's performance in this role against Croatia was exceptional. He recovered possession 12 times, showcasing his defensive prowess and earning praise from fans and pundits alike.

Bastoni's ability to distribute the ball effectively from the back also stood out. He completed 82 passes, with an impressive accuracy rate, including 11 long passes over 30 yards, of which seven were successful. This skill set is reminiscent of the legendary Lothar Matthäus, known for his long-range passing and defensive capabilities. Bastoni's contributions were instrumental in Italy's ability to maintain possession and transition from defense to attack efficiently.

Areas for Improvement

Despite his impressive performance, Bastoni was not flawless. He missed two crucial scoring opportunities that could have secured a win for Italy without relying on a stoppage-time equalizer. Additionally, he was partially at fault for Luka Modric’s goal, where he mistimed his jump, allowing Modric to capitalize. These moments gave Italy’s coach, Luciano Spalletti, a chance to criticize, though the overall assessment of Bastoni’s game remained positive.

The Evolution of Bastoni

Bastoni's journey over the past three years has been remarkable. During the 2020 European Championship (held in 2021 due to the pandemic), Bastoni was more of a squad player, making a brief appearance in the final group stage match after Italy had already secured qualification. He was often considered a "mascot" of the team rather than a key player. Fast forward three years, and Bastoni has become a central figure in Italy’s defense, demonstrating significant growth and maturity.

Comparisons and Future Potential

At 25 years old, Bastoni still has much potential to unlock. Comparing him to Italian defensive legends like Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci, and Giorgio Chiellini at the same age, Bastoni’s career trajectory shows great promise. Each of these players developed into stalwarts of the Italian defense, and Bastoni has the talent and attributes to follow in their footsteps.

Bastoni’s performance in the match against Croatia highlighted his readiness to take on greater responsibility. His ability to read the game, combined with his passing accuracy and defensive skills, makes him a valuable asset for both Italy and Inter Milan. If he continues to develop at this rate, Bastoni could very well become one of the premier defenders in European football.

The Road Ahead

For Italy, securing a place in the Round of 16 is a significant achievement, especially given the competitive nature of their group. The tactical flexibility shown by the team, and the ability to adapt to different formations, bodes well for their prospects in the knockout stages. With players like Barella and Bastoni hitting peak form, Italy can approach the upcoming matches with confidence.

As the tournament progresses, the spotlight will remain on Bastoni and his ability to anchor the Italian defense. His performances will be crucial in determining how far Italy can go in Euro 2024. The evolution from a squad player to a key defensive leader is a testament to Bastoni’s hard work and determination. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if he can maintain his form and continue to shine on Europe’s biggest stage.

In conclusion, Alessandro Bastoni’s rise over the past three years from a peripheral figure to a mainstay in the Italian defense is a story of growth, adaptation, and excellence. His performance in Euro 2024 has been nothing short of impressive, and as he continues to develop, the future looks bright for both Bastoni and the Italian national team.