Inter Milan midfielder Kristjan Asllani is happy to learn the craft from his older and more prominent teammate Hakan Calhanoglu.
The Albanian had a positive second-half cameo against Atalanta on Friday night. The Italian champions dismantled Gian Piero Gasperini’s men by four goals to nil.
Asllani came off the bench at the hour mark as a replacement for Calhanoglu who may have suffered a muscular problem alongside Alessandro Bastoni.
The 22-year-old describes the result as a significant victory as it came against a tough opponent.
“It’s a very important win. We know the value of Atalanta who play man-to-man, it’s never easy to escape their pressure,” said the Empoli youth product in his post-match press conference via FcInterNews.
“We were good, especially in the first half hour, then we managed the game well. These are three fundamental points.”
Asllani realizes the importance of making the most of his playing time.
“It’s always important to take advantage of my minutes on the pitch. I know I have strong players in front of me in the pecking order.
“I have to do well, even when I play for only three or five minutes. I’m sure I’ll do so because I have fantastic teammates.
“The coach is good at making everyone participate even during training. The midfield is strong, the three starters are top-class players.
Inter Milan Midfielder Kristjan Asllani Explains The Importance Of Having Hakan Calhanoglu As A Teammate
The young midfielder reiterates his joy to learn from a great teacher like Calhanoglu.
“When I arrived I was only a child so I just had to learn. Now I know how to manage the moments, I have to take my responsibilities.
“I must continue to work hard. In front of me, I have a master like Hakan, I’m happy to have a teacher like him.”
Finally, the Albania international insists the Nerazzurri still have a large appetite for glory.
“We are still hungry, we see it in training. We know we have an objective.
“The most difficult thing is to confirm ourselves at the top and we will try to do it. Today was a demonstration, let’s continue on this path.”
