Head and heart: Calhanoglu’s season as a Nerazzurri hero

The heartbeat of a brilliant team, the maestro who set the tempo for the entire Nerazzurri orchestra: Hakan Calhanoglu was one of the driving forces behind Inter’s Double-winning season.

It was a remarkable year for the Turkish midfielder, who responded with personality and composure in a campaign that became unforgettable for Inter and their fans. Hakan showed resilience and character throughout, reflecting the spirit of the team itself. Cristian Chivu placed his trust in him by handing him the keys to midfield, and Calhanoglu delivered with a truly outstanding season.

A playmaker, a leader and a scorer of crucial goals, Hakan scored nine goals in Serie A and 12 overall, stepping up in some of the biggest moments of Inter’s run. From his brace away to Juventus to another against Fiorentina, and then the stunning strike just before half-time against Roma on Easter Sunday on the night Inter’s Scudetto charge truly came to life.

But perhaps his most unforgettable performance came against Como at San Siro in the Coppa Italia semi-final: a sensational brace and a decisive assist for Sucic inspired a dramatic comeback, a display that proved crucial in Inter’s path to a tenth Coppa Italia triumph.

Thirty appearances, twelve goals and seven assists tell part of the story. More than anything, though, one thing became clear once again: Hakan Calhanoglu was one of the most adored Nerazzurri heroes of the season.