# Barella's Performance Metrics and Assist Contributions at Inter Milan
Luka Modrić's successor at Inter Milan, Marcelo Brozović, may have hogged the headlines for a large part of the season, but it is another Croatian, Mateo Barella, who has quietly established himself as a key player for the Italian giants. Since joining from Cagliari in 2019, Barella has become an integral part of Inter Milan's midfield, known for his work ethic, defensive discipline, and the occasional eye-catching display of skill.
## Performance Metrics
Barella's performance metrics reflect his versatility and the depth of his game. In the 2021-2022 season, the midfielder logged 40 appearances across all competitions, including 34 league games. His statistics paint a picture of a player who is equally adept at both defense and attack.
In the league, Barella contributed two goals and seven assists, demonstrating his ability to influence games not just through his passing, but also through his own goal-scoring prowess. He completed an impressive 86.7% of his passes, a testament to his ball retention and playmaking skills. His 2.2 tackles per game and 1.3 interceptions highlight his defensive commitment, a trait that has won him plaudits from both fans and coaches.
## Assist Contributions
While goals are the ultimate measure of a player's impact, assists often provide a more nuanced view of their role in a team. Barella's assist contributions have been a key component of Inter Milan's offensive strategy. Over the course of the season, he registered seven assists, often finding his teammates in prime scoring positions.
His assists were spread across various playstyles, including set pieces and through balls, indicating his adaptability on the pitch. His vision and passing accuracy were on full display during key matches, including a memorable assist in the Europa League semi-final against Rangers, which led to Inter's eventual triumph.
## Conclusion
Mateo Barella's rise at Inter Milan has been a testament to his dedication and the quality of his play. His performance metrics and assist contributions demonstrate his role as a pivotal midfielder for the club. As Inter Milan continues to build for the future, the Croatian star is sure to be a central figure in their plans.