Lovable player. In addition to his great technical ability. Man works hard all game, really hard. He's been doing a Mandzukic in terms of defensive contribution.
There should be no questions regarding his defending and his desire. Ran the whole match. Helped Cancelo the whole match. His role was very difficult with 10 men. We were never outnumbered on his side.
I will never believe that he cannot play Khedira's position until I see it.
He's easy on the eye so will always be popular with neutrals and purists, but what he did better today was concentrate all game and made the right decision almost always. His touch was also really good, even for his high level. This sort of game is also great for fitness, which he needs in the long run.
He’s also so much of a physical beast now, to add to his undoubted skill and flair. Compare him to what he looked like 2-3 years ago at Viola. Almost Ronaldoesque. Gonna be a key player for us and Italy from now on.
i just checked a couple of old images, and his shoulders are huge now compared to the old berna. what a lovely transformation: a more useful player and a nicer poster boy.