Ahead Of Italy Vs Spain, Nicolo Barella Makes Xavi And Iniesta An Inspiration

JAKARTA - Italy national team midfielder Nicolo Barella said two iconic Barcelona players who led Spain to win the 2008 and 2012 European Cups, Xavi, and Andres Iniesta, became the gold standard for modern midfielders.

Barella's praise came ahead of the Euro 2020 semi-final match between Italy and Spain on July 6. Barella himself played a central role in the Azzurri's qualification to the last four, including scoring the decisive goal against Belgium in the quarter-finals.

"Spain has great champions who inspire us all, like Xavi and Iniesta", Barella said as reported by Spanish daily Marca, quoted by Antara, Monday, July 5.

The 24-year-old continued, "it's easy to say they inspire us (the midfielders), but they do inspire all who love football".

"I have different characteristics in my playing style, but I have a lot of respect for them", Barella continued.

"Sergio Busquets has also been among the best in the world for many years, both with Spain and with Barcelona. You have to congratulate him for that, and now they have Pedri and Koke", said Barella.

Barella is expected to remain as one of the first eleven players in Roberto Mancini's squad in midfield to take on Spain at Wembley. Mancini is expected to put the trio of Barella, Marco Verratti, and Jorginho in midfield.