Barella and de Vrij Make Gran Galà del Calcio Best XI

Even with Inter’s Matchday 28 clash against Sassuolo postponed, the Nerrazurri were able to keep its winning streak alive off the pitch. Well, to some extent, at least. Italian football’s yearly awards show, the Gran Galà del Calcio, has released its prizes for the 2019/20 season and two Nerazzurri were included. A contingent made up of coaches, players, referees, and journalists voted Stefan de Vrij and Nicolo Barella into the team of the season.

de Vrij, who was also recognized by the league as the 2019/20 defender of the season, was a mainstay in the best defense of Serie A. He made 46 appearances for Inter across all competitions, chipping in 4 goals and 5 assists as well. The Dutchman is currently out with COVID-19 but has been as reliable as ever in 2020/21.

Last season was Barella’s first in a black and blue jersey after a move from Cagliari but the Italian didn’t take long to find a place in the starting lineup. He ended the campaign with 41 showings plus four goals and eight assists. His second season at the San Siro has been even more impressive and he has cemented himself as one of the best defenders in Italy.

Photo by Daniele Badolato - Juventus FC/Juventus FC via Getty Images

Juventus received the most mentions, with Cristiano Ronaldo, Paulo Dybala, and Leonardo Bonucci getting Best XI nods en route to a ninth straight Scudetto. It was Atalanta, however, which was judged to be the team of the year after a third place finish and a run to the UEFA Champions League quarter finals. Gian Piero Gasperini won Coach of the Year as well.

Congratulations to all of the winners, but most of all to Barella and de Vrij!

Forza Inter!