The Turkish player attempted 106 passes, making only 6 mistakes, showcasing an almost perfect performance in a game where he also hit the post.
100 precise passes, He claimed the Derby d’Italia with yet another outstanding performance. Hakan Calhanoglu, who had rested due to suspension last Sunday against Fiorentina, made a strong comeback against Juventus in the most crucial and emotionally charged match that might have influenced the title race.
Facing fellow countryman Yildiz, the Turkish player showcased a football masterclass: 100 accurate passes out of 106 attempts, 8 incisive through balls; with some of them looking like a playstation pass, hit the post, and 7 balls recovered. A stellar performance which ‘Gazzetta dello Sport’ described it as worthy of an Oscar for one of the idols of the Curva Nord. It feels like a lifetime has passed since his days at AC Milan.
At this moment, Calhanoglu is arguably the best playmaker in the major European leagues, enjoying a memorable season with 11 goals (9 in Serie A) and, more importantly, contributing numerous passes to his teammates. Few would have anticipated in August 2022 that Inter not only could do without Brozovic in front of the defense but already had a player more decisive than the Croatian. The Turk has done well to adapt to his new role, and Inzaghi deserves praise for trusting and helping him develop skills in the defensive phase.
The Nerazzurri’s number 20 has evolved into a complete player, capable of creating and disrupting plays, halting opponents’ actions and initiating attacks. He embodies the traits of modern players that are hard to do without. This is why Asllani, an Albanian international and a promising young talent, is getting so few chances. With a player like Calhanoglu, it’s impossible to overlook his contributions.
Close to winning his first Serie A, Hakan dreams of securing the coveted tricolor. In the 2021-22 season, his first with Inter, the small triangle eluded him, ending up on Milan’s chest, the club he left, to move to the other side of Milan.
From May 2022 onward, the twenty-nine-year-old endured taunts from former fans and ex-teammate Ibrahimovic. He rectified it with five consecutive derby victories and winning the Italian Supercup in January 2023.
The true “revenge” might be complete when he lifts the trophy of the Italian champions. Hakan is content in the city of Milan, feeling like a king at Inter. The only thing missing is the Serie A title, but after another night as the absolute protagonist, he senses the milestone is closer.
