Barella: "We're working hard and gearing up for the new season"

HONG KONG - Everything is set at Kai Tak Stadium in Hong Kong, where Inter and Manchester City will face each other on Saturday at 19:30 local time (13:30 CEST) for an international friendly.

The match will be broadcast live on DAZN and on Sky, at no extra cost for existing subscribers, while non-subscribers will be able to watch via pay-per-view on OneFootball and DAZN.

At the pre-match press conference which took place at the stadium that will host the friendly, Nicolò Barella answered questions from journalists.

Some of the squad had the chance to enjoy some extra weeks of rest compared to last season. How important was that for you, and how did the training camp in Germany go?

"Having a bit more time to recover is always important. Of course, watching the others play at the World Cup was heartbreaking. But even in difficult moments, you have to take something positive: we had the chance to rest and then work hard in Germany. We're charged up now for the season."

You are going into your eighth season at Inter. How do you approach it, and what are your hopes and ambitions?

"I approach it as I always have. The objective here has always been to win. It has been difficult at times; sometimes we have made mistakes, but that’s football. The objective is the same for the club, the ownership and the team. After eight seasons, I would like to stay here forever, but it will depend on my physical condition in the coming years."

Have we already seen the best version of Barella?

"I hope I can still raise my level. Every coach I have worked with has taught me something. Now the coach may ask me to try something new and teach me something new. There is always room to learn and grow."

A comment on Mancini as Italy head coach.

"I haven’t spoken to anyone yet; we were focused on the training camp. With Mancini, we had an incredible time during his spell in charge. I want to thank him for what we achieved, and we will try to do our best for the Azzurri and the people of Italy."

After a difficult season, you bounced back and led Inter to victory. How did you do it?

"The only thing you can do is get back up. These are moments you have to face in football. You have to roll up your sleeves, follow the coach's instructions, dig deep and find the strength and energy needed. Inter is my family, and it only makes sense to give it my all."