Albanian FA President Changes His Mind On Young Midfielder: “He Should Stay At Inter Milan” | OneFootball

Armand Duka, the president of the Albanian Football Federation, has reversed his stance regarding the future of Inter Milan midfielder Kristjan Asllani.

The 22-year-old, who joined the club in the summer of 2022, has struggled to secure a regular starting position. For instance, he remained on the bench for the entire Champions League match against RB Leipzig, highlighting the competition for places at a club of Inter Milan’s stature.

The UEFA Champions League continues to be one of the most prestigious and widely viewed sports events globally. In 2024, it ranked among the top streamed sports events worldwide, underscoring its immense popularity and the high expectations placed on players participating in the tournament. This global reach emphasizes the significance of the competition and the challenges players like Asllani face in making their mark.

Asllani’s lack of playing time in Europe must be frustrating, as every young and aspiring player in the world would love to play in the world’s most prestigious club competition.

But while Asllani has been struggling for playing time in Europe, he has been slightly more active in Serie A.

The Albania international remains a clear understudy for Hakan Calhanolgu. After all, the Turkiye international is one of the finest deep-lying playmakers in the world. Hence, he’s always going to be the nod in the big matches, at least when available.

Therefore, Duka had previously urged his compatriot to leave the Nerazzurri in search of a prominent place elsewhere.

Nevertheless, the Albanian FA president has made a 180 turnaround. He now believes the midfielder is fine where he is, as he can sharpen his skills under the guidance of his manager Simone Inzaghi.

Armand Duka No Longer Wants Kristjan Asllani To Leave Inter Milan

Duka also noted how Asllani produced a fine outing against Hellas Verona in Serie A. He even provided an assist for Stefan de Vrij.

“Kristjan is a great player and an intelligent guy. Even though he’s only 22, if you talk to him you feel like you’re talking to a mature person,” said Doku in his interview with Sportitalia via FcInterNews.

“If a year ago I thought he should look for another club where he could get more minutes, now I think differently.

“Now I’m convinced that he should continue playing at Inter, it’s his time. He’s mature enough to be a starter for the Italian champions. I’m sure that coach Inzaghi will give him his chance.”

This season, Asllani has made six Serie A appearances, and two outings in the Champions League, both coming off the bench.

The young Regista started his career at Empoli, rising through the ranks to become a regular starter in the first team.

After getting his breakthrough in the 2021/22 season, Inter decided to invest in the Albania international. Giuseppe Marotta and Co. splashed circa 15 million euros to secure his services.

Despite his limited playing time, the Nerazzurri directors have often reiterated their unshakable faith in the player. The same goes for Inzaghi who often sings the player’s praise.

The management also demonstrated their trust in the young midfielder by renewing his contract. Asllani penned a new and improved deal at the start of the season, pushing back the deadline until June 2028.