# Bastoni's Ascension: Tracking Playing Time at Inter Milan

The recent emergence of Bastoni as a key defender for Inter Milan has been nothing short of meteoric. The 22-year-old Italian has swiftly transitioned from a relative unknown to a crucial element in the Nerazzurri's defensive strategy.

## Rising Star in a Talent-Rich Backline

Ever since his arrival at Inter Milan, Bastoni has impressed with his aerial ability, composure under pressure, and versatility across various positions. Despite Inter Milan boasting a talent pool teeming with defensive talent, such as Skriniar, de Vrij, and Miranda, Bastoni has managed to carve out a niche for himself.

## Steadily Increasing Playing Time

Under manager Simone Inzaghi, Bastoni has been progressively handed more responsibilities and playing time. His first season saw him mostly featured as a substitute, often providing a refreshing energy in the latter stages of matches. However, it was his breakout season in 2020-2021 that marked his ascension to a starting role.

### Early Showings and Trust

From the onset of the 2020-2021 season, Bastoni displayed his potential, often pairing up with Milan Skriniar at the heart of defense. Inzaghi's trust in Bastoni's abilities paid off as he started in 27 of the league matches. This consistency led to a total of 3,390 minutes played during the campaign.

## Consistency as a Staple in Defense

Bastoni has maintained his spot in the starting lineup in the following seasons, showcasing a consistency that has become a hallmark of his game. The defender's versatility has been instrumental for Inzaghi, who has deployed him at center-back and in a defensive role behind the sweeper, depending on the team's tactical setup.

## Impact on the Team

The integration of Bastoni into the squad has had a noticeable impact on Inter Milan's defense. His partnership with Skriniar has proved to be a formidable one, and together they have formed a robust backline that has played a pivotal role in securing crucial points and titles for the club.

## Future Prospects

With Bastoni continuing to mature and his potential still untapped, his future at Inter Milan seems bright. The Nerazzurri's management will need to ensure they nurture this talent and reward him with a contract extension to avoid any potential disputes as he enters his prime years. For now, Bastoni has become an integral part of Inter Milan's defensive core, and his rise has been nothing short of spectacular.