I think that comes from him having a physical edge over most players during his youth days, and the slower paced Serie A where he learned his trade.
At times, it's like he's shocked that the opposition dare to dispossess him. He tries to overuse his strength or showboat instead of playing a simple 10 yard pass and moving into space.
Also, he lacks bottle. He half heartedly closes down players and can be lazy to track a runner from midfield. You have to want to defend.
From a technical perspective, he's very gifted. But he's like the Nani of central midfielders at present; not knowing when to pass, shoot or lay it off.