Capello: Barella like Tardelli

By Football Italia staff

Fabio Capello says Cagliari and Italy starlet Nicolo Barella reminds him of 1982 World Cup winner Marco Tardelli for his ‘dynamism’.

Barella was considered among Italy’s best performers during the international break, having only made his Azzurri debut in the midweek friendly against Ukraine, before helping them beat Poland 1-0 on Sunday.

“Barella’s the player who can change the tempo in midfield,” Capello told Radio Anch’io Sport.

“He gives something more in terms of quality and quantity, which we lacked before. He reminds me a bit of Tardelli on a dynamic level.

“Italian football is now about possession. It’s now in everyone’s DNA. Technically this team are very good, but let’s not forget that Poland seemed a bit resigned.

“The midfield is the team’s engine. It ‘s important to be able to get the ball near the opposition’s box, and this is the job that Mancini has to do.

“We’re growing with these players. This victory makes us feel more competitive. Lasagna? He’s an interesting player, I see him in a good way and he can give more to the national team.

“For now he’s only made a cameo, which is too short for me to give a full assessment. Cutrone? This could be the right national team for him.

“I like him, he’s dynamic and he gets himself in front of the opposition goal. With him, perhaps we’d have more presence in the box.”

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