Italy coach Luciano Spalletti will reportedly deploy Inter Milan stalwart Nicolo Barella in a less familiar role this evening against Belgium.
Belgium will host the Azzurri at King Baudouin Stadium in Brussels in the penultimate group-stage matchday of the UEFA Nations League.
The Italians are leading the group with 10 points as they remain undefeated. They will be looking to preserve their spot on top ahead of what should be a decisive clash against France at San Siro three days later.
According to Tuttusport via FcInterNewsSpalletti will resort to Barella’s services, but in a rather unconventional role.
The Turin-based newspaper expects the 65-year-old to field the Inter superstar as an attacking midfielder.
The former Roma, Inter and Napoli tactician has been relying on a 3-4-2-1 formation. This includes a player who operates in a hybrid role between an attacking midfielder and a third central midfielder.
While Roma captain Lorenzo Pellegrini was initially Spalletti’s choice for this role, Barella will seemingly get the nod this time.
Inter Milan Star Nicolo Barella To Play As Attacking Midfielder In Belgium Vs Italy Clash
The Nerazzurri vice-captain is widely considered a central midfielder. He usually interprets a box-to-box role in Simone Inzaghi’s 3-5-2 system.
Nevertheless, Spalletti apparently feels Stretcher is versatile enough to excel in this role. This new position requires creativity, the ability to operate in tight areas, and an eye for goal.
Despite his relatively young age, the 27-year-old is one the most experienced individuals in the current Italy squad. He already has 57 senior caps to his name, as well as 10 international goals, including one against Belgium in Euro 2020.
This season, the Nerazzurri star has made nine appearances in Serie A, contributing with a goal and two assists. He also had three outings in the Champions League.
Belgium
