# Bastoni's Playing Time and Impact at Inter Milan Analyzed
**Introduction**
Ever since the summer of 2019, Milan Skriniar’s long-term injury forced Inter Milan to seek a reliable defender to fill the void in their backline. The Slovenian star’s absence paved the way for the introduction of Stefan de Vrij, but the club soon turned its gaze towards another young star – Alessandro Bastoni. Since his arrival, Bastoni has become a key figure for Inter Milan, contributing significantly to the team's defense and earning himself a spot in the Italian national team. This article will analyze Bastoni’s playing time and the impact he has had at the club.
**Playing Time**
Bastoni's playing time has grown steadily over the past few seasons. Initially, he was mostly used as a backup, stepping into the team when necessary. However, with the departure of de Vrij and the subsequent arrival of other defensive options like Alex Telles, Bastoni has secured a regular starting spot. In the 2022/2023 season, he has been one of Inter Milan’s most consistent performers, starting 29 out of 32 matches in all competitions.
**Impact**
The young Italian has made a substantial impact at Inter Milan, not only as a defensive presence but also as a leader. Bastoni has developed into a solid center-back, displaying excellent defensive skills and aerial duels. His physicality and aerial dominance have been crucial for the Nerazzurri in both league and European fixtures.
In addition to his defensive capabilities, Bastoni has showcased his versatility by operating as a defensive midfielder at times. His ability to read the game and distribute the ball effectively has helped his team transition from defense to attack seamlessly.
On the personal front, Bastoni has emerged as an important member of the Italian national team, playing a significant role in their Euro 2020 campaign and currently featuring regularly for the senior squad. His inclusion in the national setup is a testament to his consistent performances at club level.
**Conclusion**
Alessandro Bastoni’s playing time and impact at Inter Milan have been remarkable. As a central defender, he has grown into a reliable and influential player, earning the trust of both the coaching staff and his teammates. His development has been one of the key factors in Inter Milan's improved defensive performances in recent seasons. With his continued progress, Bastoni is set to become a cornerstone of the club’s defense for years to come.