Turkiye Assistant Coach Hails Inter Milan Star: “Incredible Player, We’ve Known Him Since His Time At AC Milan” | OneFootball

Turkiye assistant manager Daniele Russo heaps praise on Inter Milan mifielder Hakan Calhanoglu ahead of the big showdown against the Netherlands.

The Turks have been delivering the goods since the start of EURO 2024. Except for a 0-3 defeat at the hands of Portugal, they have been almost flawless, pairing positive results with entertaining football.

Italian manager Vincenzo Montella has managed to guide the Crescent-Stars to the quarter-finals, setting up a clash with the Dutch.

They were able to beat Austria in the Round of 16 despite the absence of the suspended Calhanoglu.

Nevertheless, the 30-year-old will return to the fold on Saturday night and try to lead his nation’s charge towards the semi-finals.

During Friday’s post-match press conference, Turikiye’s assistant coach Russo only had words of praise for the Inter star.

Turkiye Assistant Coach Daniele Russo Describes Inter Milan Star As Incredible Player

The 51-year-old is a long-time collaborator of Montella. Their partnership dates back to their stint at AS Roma.

Thus, Russo was also Montella’s assistant during the latter’s tenure at AC Milan back when Calhanoglu used to ply his trade in the city’s red half.

“We have known Hakan since his time at AC Milan. We know what kind of leader he is,” said Russo in the press conference via FcInterNews.

“It goes without saying that he is an incredible player. He is also very good at protecting his young teammates.

“They are talented, but it’s not always easy for them in a tournament where you play every four days. So We thank our captain for his support.’

Calhanoglu has been a regular feature for Inter since making the crosstown move from Milan in 2021.

He has now cemented himself as one of the finest deep-lying playmakers on the planet.