Inter Milan’s Three Midfield Maestros: Showcasing Leadership and Team Spirit

In the past 24 hours, the Inter Milan community has been buzzing with discussions about whether Steven Zhang can secure €300 million. Italian lawyers, after analyzing the 30-page loan contract between the Zhang family and Oaktree Capital (a €275 million loan taken post-pandemic with part of Inter's equity as collateral, due this May), have suggested that even if the Zhang family fails to repay, they won’t lose everything. If Oaktree takes over Inter, they would still need to pay an additional €200 million to the Zhang family. If Oaktree decides to sell Inter to a third party for €1.3 billion, the Zhang family could receive about €300 million in total.

Despite the contract’s terms, whether this scenario will unfold is uncertain. Sources from Jiangsu indicate that Suning is confident about resolving the refinancing issue before May, and Oaktree Capital, preferring to collect interest rather than owning Inter, supports this optimism. This topic is best revisited later.

Amidst this financial speculation, Inter is deeply focused on their on-field performance, showcasing exceptional unity. La Gazzetta dello Sport recently highlighted the commendable off-field roles of Inter’s three main midfielders: Henrikh Mkhitaryan as the “translator,” Hakan Çalhanoğlu as the “debater,” and Nicolò Barella as the “comedian.” Each player brings unique value to the team.

Nicolò Barella: The Comedian with a Leader’s Mindset

During Inter's match against Verona, in the 97th minute, Barella chose to pass to Alexis Sánchez instead of scoring in an open goal, which seemed like a missed opportunity. However, even if he had scored, VAR might have disallowed it due to a prior penalty. This incident prompted curiosity about Barella’s decision-making. Coach Simone Inzaghi confirmed that Barella aimed to help Sánchez break his Serie A goal drought, demonstrating his team-first mentality.

Barella’s action, though seemingly comedic, highlighted his leadership qualities. He understood that while his own statistics were less important, helping Sánchez regain his scoring touch was crucial for the team. Criticism of Sánchez has been rampant, but Inter’s leadership believes that breaking Sánchez’s goal drought would benefit the team, especially with the Supercoppa Italiana and the Champions League knockout stages approaching.

Hakan Çalhanoğlu: The Debater Defending Teammates

Çalhanoğlu recently defended his teammate Marko Arnautović during an interview, earning him the nickname “the debater.” Amidst criticism of Arnautović, especially with Edin Džeko's hat-trick performance in Turkey, fans have been vocal about missing Džeko and criticizing Arnautović. Some even claim that letting Džeko go and signing Arnautović was a major blunder by the club’s management.

However, the decision not to retain Džeko was influenced by Romelu Lukaku’s demands. The unforeseen departure of Lukaku and his subsequent saga were unexpected twists that changed the club’s plans. If Džeko had stayed, Marcus Thuram’s rapid rise in value might not have occurred. Moreover, comparing Turkish Super Lig statistics with Serie A is not a fair assessment.

In this context, Çalhanoğlu’s defense of Arnautović is commendable. If Inter is to rely on their current four forwards to compete on multiple fronts, maintaining unity is crucial. Çalhanoğlu’s actions reflect a commitment to team cohesion and support for his teammates, essential for the challenges ahead.

Henrikh Mkhitaryan: The Translator Bridging Communication Gaps

Mkhitaryan has taken on the role of “translator,” helping new signing Tajon Buchanan, who doesn’t speak any Italian, integrate into the team. Mkhitaryan’s willingness to assist Buchanan in communicating with coaches and teammates has been highly praised. His fluency in English has facilitated this role, but more importantly, it reflects the genuine care and inclusiveness of Inter’s squad.

Unlike some clubs where senior players might view newcomers as competition and create a hostile environment, Inter’s players have shown genuine support for new arrivals. This supportive atmosphere helps new players settle in quickly, both on and off the pitch.

Team Spirit and Unity Amidst Challenges

As Inter prepare for a series of tough fixtures after their match against Monza, the exemplary team spirit and leadership qualities displayed by Barella, Çalhanoğlu, and Mkhitaryan are vital. Barella’s selflessness, Çalhanoğlu’s defense of teammates, and Mkhitaryan’s bridging of communication gaps illustrate the strong camaraderie within the squad.

This unity is essential as Inter face both domestic and international challenges. With the Supercoppa Italiana and Champions League knockout stages on the horizon, the team’s cohesion will be tested. The leadership shown by these midfielders sets a positive tone for the entire squad, reinforcing the importance of working together towards common goals.

Barella’s Leadership in Action

Barella’s choice to pass to Sánchez in a crucial moment, prioritizing the team’s needs over personal glory, reflects a mature understanding of leadership. His awareness that boosting Sánchez’s confidence could have long-term benefits for the team demonstrates strategic thinking. This incident underscores Barella’s development into a leader who prioritizes team success.

Çalhanoğlu’s Defense of Arnautović

Çalhanoğlu’s vocal support for Arnautović amid widespread criticism showcases his role as a protector of team morale. By standing up for a teammate, he reinforces the message that every player’s contribution is valued. This kind of public support can help alleviate pressure on players like Arnautović, enabling them to focus on their performance without the burden of external negativity.

Mkhitaryan’s Translational Role

Mkhitaryan’s proactive approach in assisting Buchanan highlights the inclusive culture at Inter. His role as a translator goes beyond language; it signifies a commitment to ensuring new players feel welcomed and supported. This attitude fosters a positive environment where all players can thrive, knowing they have the backing of their teammates.

The Broader Implications for Inter Milan

The leadership qualities exhibited by these three midfielders are crucial for Inter’s success in the coming months. As the team navigates the demands of competing on multiple fronts, the unity and support within the squad will be pivotal. The examples set by Barella, Çalhanoğlu, and Mkhitaryan create a foundation of trust and cooperation, essential for achieving their goals.

Conclusion

In the face of financial uncertainties and intense competition, Inter Milan’s strength lies in their collective spirit. The leadership shown by Barella, Çalhanoğlu, and Mkhitaryan is a testament to the team’s resilience and unity. As Inter Milan prepares for crucial fixtures, the dedication and camaraderie of these key players will play a vital role in their pursuit of success. The positive dynamics within the squad, fostered by these midfield maestros, highlight the importance of teamwork and mutual support in overcoming challenges and striving for excellence.