Midfielder Nicolò Barella says Inter must ‘learn how to close matches’ against the giants in Europe and thinks the added depth will ‘help in difficult games’.
Barella prepares for the Beneamata’s first match in the Champions League 2020-21 against Borussia Mönchengladbach at San Siro tonight.
The Italy international came off the bench in the 1-1 draw witht Slavia Prague last year and scored Inter’s only goal on his debut in the prestigious competition.
Midfielder Nicolò Barella says Inter must ‘learn how to close matches’ against the giants in Europe and thinks the added depth will ‘help in difficult games’.
Barella prepares for the Beneamata’s first match in the Champions League 2020-21 against Borussia Mönchengladbach at San Siro tonight.
The Italy international came off the bench in the 1-1 draw witht Slavia Prague last year and scored Inter’s only goal on his debut in the prestigious competition.
“The goal against Slavia was very exciting because I was on the bench and didn’t expect to come on,” Barella told UEFA.com.
“I think my scream of joy was choked only because it was the equalised, not the winner.
“I have often said that it was the first year in our growth process, we also achieved some important results,” the midfielder added.
“In the group stage we played great games against Barcelona and Dortmund.
“We have to learn how to close the matches against the big teams. The Champions League represents the highest level in Europe, something you understand immediately from the first kick.
“There are no simple games or granted results. Maybe it’s easier in Serie A, in the Champions League, every match is a Final.”
Barella said coach Antonio Conte has helped him develop and praised the ‘really good group’ at San Siro.
“He helped me a lot since I arrived,” he said. “I have become a more complete player. I think I have improved in controlling the games and I have improved in my timing.
“But we are a really good group, always ready to help each other for the good of the team.”
Inter have strengthened their squad over the summer and Barella believes the added depth can prove decisive in Europe.
“Some great players have arrived; some others have returned after doing well elsewhere. The coach decides the line-up, but a long bench can certainly help in difficult games and situations.
“There will be many tight matches in different competitions, so everyone will get the chance to play and help out.”