Ex AC Milan, Inter & Roma Striker Shockingly Favors Juventus Ace Over Nerazzurri Talisman: “Best Italian Midfielder” | OneFootball

Antonio Cassano drew a shocking comparison between Juventus midfielder Manuel Locatelli and Inter Milan talisman Nicolo Barella.

In his recent chat on Viva el Futbol via FCInter1908, Cassano named Locatelli the ‘best Italian midfielder’ ahead of Barella.

With all due respect to Locatelli’s talent and quality, the former striker’s statement makes little sense.

For context, he has tallied four goals from 158 appearances for Juventus since joining the club from Sassuolo in 2021.

One would say his job isn’t to score goals. Then, what? Assist?

Across those 158 matches, Locatelli collected 15 assists.

Let’s look at Barella’s stats at Giuseppe Meazza.

For starters, he already has three Serie A goals this season, already one fewer than Locatelli in his entire Juventus career.

Moving to the assist column, Barella has five compared to his compatriot’s two.

That should spare you the effort of looking further back.

But for some reason, Cassano gives Locatelli the upper hand.

Antonio Cassano Names Manuel Locatelli ‘Best Italian Midfielder’ Ahead of Nicolo Barella

“Barella runs a lot, but I keep thinking he causes quite a bit of confusion,” Cassano stated.

“Pair Locatelli with Calhanoglu and Mkhitaryan, players who consistently create football, and then let’s see…

“Today, the best Italian midfielder is Locatelli, based on what he shows on the pitch.

“He’s not Pirlo, he’s not Rodri, but if the comparison is with Barella, Frattesi, Ricci, or Rovella…

“Locatelli is showing more consistency and leadership. He’s endured waves of criticism but continues to stand out.”

Based on the abovementioned stats, Cassano’s words can’t be farther from the truth.

There’s no denying everyone is entitled to their own opinion.

However, it’s not the first time Cassano took a dig at Inter.

Indeed, he recently accused Scudetto-winning manager Simone Inzaghi of a ‘poor’ in-game management.

It feels like this is becoming personal for the ex-Inter striker and for no good reason.