Barella: ‘One of my idols was Stankovic’

Inter midfielder Nicolò Barella revealed Dejan Stankovic was one of his idols growing up. ‘I try to do as well as he did at the Nerazzurri’.

The Italy international spoke live on Inter’s official Instagram channel and revealed why he picked No. 23 at San Siro.

“Because when I arrived at Inter, No. 18, which has always been my number, belonged to [Kwadwo] Asamoah,” Barella said.

“I chose No. 23, which belonged to LeBron [James], my idol, even if he has changed now.”

The 24-year-old, who scored in Italy’s 2-1 win against Belgium on Sunday, then recalled his best goal so far in his career.

“My best goal is the one against Fiorentina, in the Coppa Italia,” he continued. “It was difficult to coordinate, and I’m happy that the ball went into the top corner.”

Barella then spoke about his role model growing up and revealed he used to look up to another Inter hero.

“One of my idols was Dejan Stankovic, I have always liked him as a football player,” Barella added. “I have always tried to take the best from him and try to do as well as he did at Inter.”