Alessandro Bastoni has opened up about his career journey and the emotional rollercoaster of playing for Inter Milan during a recent appearance on the BSMT podcast. The Italian defender, who joined Inter in 2017, reflected on his early days at the club, his struggles, and the significant moments that have shaped his career.
Initially, Bastoni spent a season on loan at Atalanta, where he struggled to secure a place in the first team. He then had a successful stint with Parma during the 2018-19 season, which solidified his confidence as a player. "I was at a gas station when I met with my agent, who asked me, ‘Do you want to join Inter?’" Bastoni recalled. "I didn’t hesitate. I immediately said yes." This marked the beginning of his journey with the Nerazzurri.
When Antonio Conte became the head coach of Inter, he placed his faith in Bastoni right away, despite the defender's initial doubts about his ability to break into a squad filled with talent, including Milan Skriniar, Stefan de Vrij, and Diego Godin. Bastoni admitted, "I thought I would never play. I asked Conte to go out on loan fifty times, but he didn’t want to hear it. He wanted to keep me at all costs." It wasn't until October that Conte began to integrate Bastoni into the lineup.
Bastoni attributes Conte's trust in him to the coach's keen understanding of football. "He’s a football fan. I’m sure he saw all my matches for Parma. He’s very focused, and he pays attention to these things," Bastoni said. He believes that Conte recognized qualities in him that the team needed, especially as he was the only left-footed player in the defense at that time.
Reflecting on his career, Bastoni shared that he had a tough time after Inter's heartbreaking loss to Manchester City in the 2023 Champions League final. "You struggle to sleep because you dream about things during the match. I’d rather lose it 10-0 than lose the way we lost it," he expressed, emphasizing the pain of knowing they were so close to victory. He confessed, "I’ve still never rewatched the highlights from that match. It makes me too nervous. It makes me sad, it hurts." The emotional weight of that defeat continues to motivate him as he looks ahead to future opportunities.
As Inter prepares for another shot at the Champions League title, Bastoni is focused on the upcoming match against Paris Saint-Germain on May 31. "721 days after the final against Manchester City, we have the chance to raise that cup again," he noted. The anticipation of redemption is palpable, and Bastoni is ready to seize the moment.
When discussing the significance of derbies against AC Milan, Bastoni described them as the most important matches for Inter. "The vast majority of the time, something important is at stake," he said, recalling recent encounters where they competed for a place in the Coppa Italia final and the Champions League semifinals. He added, "A bit less than a year ago, we clinched the Scudetto in Milan’s home. So in those cases, it becomes even more beautiful. There’s even more motivation."
Bastoni’s journey has not been without its challenges. He shared that during his youth, he faced moments of doubt, particularly when he wasn’t playing regularly at Atalanta. "I thought, ‘Who am I to keep going?’ But my parents instilled in me the importance of perseverance," he explained. His father, who played up to the under-21 national team, played a crucial role in shaping his career. "He always made sure I didn’t make the same mistakes he did," Bastoni said, highlighting the support he received during his formative years.
Now, as a key player for Inter, Bastoni embraces the responsibility that comes with representing a club of such stature. "It’s a great responsibility, representing fans from all over the world. When matchday comes, especially during a derby, it becomes magical," he said, acknowledging the pressure that accompanies high-stakes games.
In his candid reflections, Bastoni also expressed admiration for basketball players, noting that they seem to lead more normal lives despite the pressures of competition. "They can go out and enjoy life without the same level of scrutiny we face in football," he remarked, hinting at the intense public scrutiny footballers endure.
As he looks forward to the future, Bastoni remains focused on his goals both personally and with Inter. He understands the importance of resilience in football, stating, "The game gives you the chance to redeem yourself. You have to be ready to bounce back from setbacks." With a renewed sense of purpose, he is determined to make the most of the opportunities that lie ahead.
Ultimately, Alessandro Bastoni’s journey from a young player with uncertainties to a key defender for one of Italy’s top clubs is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and the unwavering support from those around him. As Inter aims for glory in the Champions League, Bastoni stands ready to contribute to the club’s ambitions and perhaps, finally, lift that elusive trophy.
