Italy's Unexpected Choice for the No. 10 Role Shines: Barella Outclasses Belgium’s €90M Stars

Italy’s narrow 1-0 victory over Belgium in the UEFA Nations League marked another tactical masterclass by coach Luciano Spalletti. Amid the triumph, one decision caught everyone’s attention: Nicolò Barella, a player rarely associated with the No. 10 role, delivered a standout performance in an unfamiliar position. The Inter Milan midfielder not only excelled but also overshadowed Belgium’s highly-touted €90 million midfield stars, Amadou Onana and Leandro Trossard.

Barella’s Numbers: A Performance Worthy of the Spotlight

Barella’s performance was as industrious as it was impactful. Despite being deployed further up the pitch than usual, he touched the ball 72 times, completed 53 of 61 passes (87% accuracy), and created one golden scoring opportunity. His pressing and dynamism forced Belgium’s backline into errors, with the game’s only goal originating from his crucial interception and forward pass.

Statistics only tell part of the story. Barella’s vision and technical precision repeatedly sliced through Belgium’s tight defensive lines, earning him a team-high 7/10 rating from Italian media, second only to goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. UEFA even featured Barella’s image as one of the matchday highlights, with match observer Frederic Sklestrat describing his contributions as “top-class and decisive.”

Spalletti’s Tactical Gamble: Barella as the "No. 10"

When Italy’s lineup was announced, the inclusion of four central midfielders—Barella, Davide Frattesi, Roberto Gagliardini, and Sandro Tonali—sparked speculation. Many assumed Frattesi, known for his attacking prowess, would operate in the advanced playmaker role. However, it was Barella who surprisingly took up the No. 10 position behind the lone striker.

Spalletti’s choice was guided by three key factors: versatility, composure under pressure, and energy. Barella embodies all three. Known for his relentless work rate and adaptability, he was the perfect candidate for a role that demanded both creativity and defensive responsibility. This decision was vindicated by Barella’s ability to shine under tight marking and his efficient link-up play, bridging Italy’s midfield and attack seamlessly.

Outrunning the Opposition: Barella’s Endless Energy

One word defines Barella’s role in this match: vitality. Despite playing just 78 minutes, Barella covered almost as much ground (10.46 km) as Frattesi, who completed the full 90 minutes. Spalletti’s system demands relentless pressing and off-the-ball movement from the No. 10 position, making Barella the ideal workhorse for the role. His stamina and high-intensity sprints ensured that Belgium’s midfield was under constant pressure.

Beyond his physical contributions, Barella displayed remarkable composure under pressure. Faced with frequent double- or triple-marking by Belgium’s midfielders, Barella rarely lost possession. His six successful duels (from seven attempts) highlighted his technical finesse and determination, qualities that neutralized Belgium’s much-vaunted midfield duo of Onana and Trossard.

Neutralizing Belgium’s Stars: Barella’s Defensive Contributions

Barella’s dominance was particularly evident in his battles with Onana and Trossard. Onana, valued at €55 million, and Trossard, worth €35 million, struggled to impose themselves against Barella’s blend of physicality and intelligence. Onana was frequently dispossessed, while Trossard found himself frustrated, resorting to fouls as Italy controlled the midfield exchanges.

This relentless defensive contribution was not limited to tackles and interceptions. Barella’s pressing forced Belgium into hurried passes, disrupting their build-up play. His ability to read the game and anticipate danger added an extra layer of protection for Italy’s backline.

A Master of Versatility: Barella’s Role at Inter and Italy

Barella’s performance against Belgium underscores his unique versatility. For Inter Milan, he operates in various roles depending on the tactical demands. In Serie A, Barella often plays closer to the opposition’s box, contributing directly to goals (one goal and two assists this season). In the Champions League, however, he adopts a deeper position, focusing on defensive duties to stabilize Inter’s backline against elite opponents like Manchester City and Arsenal.

This duality was evident in his performance for Italy. Spalletti’s decision to deploy Barella in the No. 10 role was not born of necessity but strategy. Against Belgium’s compact defensive setup, Barella’s ability to hold possession, create chances, and cover ground proved invaluable. His seamless transition between offensive and defensive duties epitomizes his status as a "true pillar" for both club and country.

Italian Media Praise: Barella’s All-Around Brilliance

Italian pundits were unanimous in their praise for Barella’s display, emphasizing his energy, technical quality, and ability to adapt to unfamiliar roles. La Gazzetta dello Sport highlighted his unselfish running and quick decision-making, calling him “the engine of Italy’s midfield.” Meanwhile, Corriere dello Sport lauded his “masterclass” against Belgium’s high-profile midfielders.

Sky Italia offered a detailed analysis of Spalletti’s reasoning for selecting Barella as the No. 10:

1. Unfamiliar but Reliable: Barella thrives even in positions he rarely plays, maintaining consistency regardless of the role.
2. Handling Pressure: He excels in congested areas where opposition defenders focus their attention.
3. Dynamic Link-Up Play: Barella possesses the creativity to connect the midfield and forward line, backed by unmatched energy.

A Role Model of Modern Midfield Play

Barella’s adaptability and consistency have made him indispensable to both Inter Milan and Italy. He has redefined the expectations of a modern midfielder, capable of excelling in virtually any role—whether it’s as a deep-lying playmaker, a box-to-box runner, or a creative attacking force. His performance against Belgium only adds to his growing reputation as one of Europe’s most complete midfielders.

The match against Belgium reinforced a universal truth about Barella: wherever the team needs him most, he delivers. For Italy, he was the unexpected but brilliant No. 10; for Inter, he’s the glue that holds the midfield together. In both cases, Nicolò Barella is the quintessential example of a player whose versatility and determination shine brightest on the biggest stages.