Nicolò Barella: Athlete's Biography

Club Career

Cagliari and short spell in Como

Barella's professional career commenced with Cagliari Calcio, where he debuted on January 15, 2015, in a Coppa Italia match against Parma. He made his Serie A debut on May 4, 2015, against the same opposition. In January 2016, he was loaned to Como in Serie B, gaining valuable experience as a first-choice midfielder. Upon his return to Cagliari, he quickly emerged as a key player, scoring his first Serie A goal on September 17, 2017, against SPAL. At the age of 22, Barella made his 100th appearance for Cagliari and was noted for recovering the most balls in the 2018–19 Serie A season, earning the Premio Bulgarelli Number 8.

Inter Milan

Barella joined Inter Milan on a one-year loan deal on July 12, 2019, with an obligation to buy. He debuted for Inter on August 26, 2019, in a Serie A match against Lecce and scored his first Champions League goal on September 17, 2019, against Slavia Prague. His contributions were pivotal as Inter reached the 2020 UEFA Europa League final and subsequently became Serie A champions in the 2020–21 season. Barella's remarkable form earned him the Serie A Best Midfielder award and a spot in the Serie A Team of the Year. His contract extension in 2021 aligned him with Inter until 2026. Barella continued to shine in the 2022–23 season, leading Inter to the UEFA Champions League final and accumulating further individual accolades.

National Team Career

Youth National Teams

Barella represented Italy in various youth categories, including the U19 team that finished as runners-up at the 2016 UEFA European Under-19 Championship. He also competed with the U20 team, achieving a third-place finish at the 2017 FIFA U-20 World Cup.

Senior National Team

Barella made his senior debut for Italy on October 10, 2018, against Ukraine. He scored his first goal for Italy in a UEFA Euro 2020 qualifying match against Finland on March 23, 2019. Barella played a crucial role in Italy's triumphant Euro 2020 campaign, contributing to the team's victory over Belgium in the quarter-finals and participating in the final win against England. His leadership qualities were recognized as he captained Italy for the first time in March 2024, later representing Italy at UEFA Euro 2024.

Nicolò Barella is an Italian professional footballer, renowned for his role as a central midfielder for both Inter Milan and the Italy national team. Born on February 7, 1997, he has been lauded for his technical prowess, versatility, and creativity on the pitch, earning a reputation as one of the world's finest midfielders. Barella has been an integral part of Inter Milan's success, contributing significantly to their domestic and European campaigns, while also being an essential figure in Italy's international triumphs.

Achievements

Team Achievements

• Serie A Champion with Inter Milan: 2020–21, 2023–24
• Coppa Italia winner: 2021–22, 2022–23
• Supercoppa Italiana winner: 2021, 2022, 2023
• UEFA Champions League runner-up: 2022–23

Individual Achievements

• Premio Bulgarelli Number 8: 2019–20
• Serie A Best Midfielder: 2020–21, 2022–23
• Serie A Team of the Year: Six consecutive years from 2018–19

Awards and Recognition

Barella's outstanding contributions to football have been recognized by consistent selections for team of the year honors and individual awards like the Serie A Best Midfielder. His skill and performance have earned him not only national acclamation but also a place among the distinguished ranks of European football's elite midfielders.

Career Overview

Barella's career has been marked by significant contributions to both club and country. His role in Inter Milan's domestic successes and his vital presence in Italy's international competitions have solidified his legacy as an exceptional midfielder. His ability to adapt and impact games with his skill set positions him as a pivotal figure within modern football.

Off the Field

Details on Barella's off-field activities remain limited, yet he is known for maintaining a profile consistent with leadership and professionalism. His public image resonates with his competitive spirit and dedication to the sport.

Personal Life

Nicolò Barella married Federica Schievenin in 2018, together they have embraced parenthood with three daughters and a son. His personal life complements his professional commitments, reflecting stability and a focus on family values alongside his thriving football career.