Italy Star Defender Responds To Critics After Inter Milan Thrashing Of Torino: “Heard Some Say We Were Finished”

Alessandro Bastoni addressed the media after last night’s Serie A day-one showdown between Inter Milan and Torino.

Speaking to Inter TV via FCInterNews, the 26-year-old hit back at Inter’s critics following a fantastic win.

Cristian Chivu oversaw a phenomenal 5-0 victory in his first Serie A game in charge of the Nerazzurri.

Indeed, last season’s runners-up delivered a superb performance, dominating proceedings from start to finish.

Alessandro Bastoni opened the scoring in the 18th minute with a towering header, setting the tone for Inter’s landslide victory.

Meanwhile, Marcus Thuram netted a double, while Ange-Yoan Bonny scored on his debut.

It’s also worth noting that Lautaro Martinez opened his account for the season.

However, Inter’s clinical finishing didn’t overshadow the team’s defensive resilience.

Despite sporadic attempts, Torino never came close to beating Yann Sommer in goal.

Much credit goes to Bastoni, who returned to his best after falling off the rails in the second half of last season.

Alessandro Bastoni Hits Back at Critics After Inter Milan Triumph vs Torino

MILAN, ITALY – AUGUST 25: Alessandro Bastoni of Internazionale looks on during the warm up prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Torino FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on August 25, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Bastoni lined up alongside Francesco Acerbi and Benjamin Pavard in the back three, forging a wall in front of Sommer.

Except for a few half-chances, Torino never had a clear-cut opening as Inter’s defense stood firm.

Meanwhile, Bastoni took the opportunity to respond to those who questioned Inter’s credentials after last season.

“It was a very tough pre-season,” the Italian defender said. “We worked hard because we wanted to start strong right away.

“I try to show my leadership on the pitch.

“This summer, I heard all sorts of things about us being finished, at the end of a cycle.

“But I see a team that finished second and reached a Champions League final – we’re far from finished.

“The coach has spoken to me a lot about pacing myself, as I often tend to push forward too much.

“He’s been very good on that front too, and I hope to keep improving.”