Hakan Calhanoglu: Inter’s Creative Metronome

Hakan Calhanoglu opened the content by leading Inter Milan’s charge from midfield, the Turkish international has evolved from a free-kick specialist at AC Milan into Simone Inzaghi’s all-action conductor.

Hakan Calhanoglu Key Numbers

Since swapping San Siro colours in 2021, Calhanoglu has delivered 18 Serie A goals and 25 assists across all competitions. Last season alone he topped Inter’s chance-creation chart, averaging 2.4 key passes, 1.1 successful dribbles and 7.9 progressive carries per 90 minutes. His 89 % pass accuracy underscores a player who blends adventure with security.

Midfielder Stats That Matter

Beyond raw goals, the midfielder’s expected assists (xA) of 9.3 ranked second in Italy’s top flight, while his defensive numbers—21 interceptions and 32 tackles won—highlight tactical discipline. A 0.29 goal-involvement rate per game places him among Europe’s elite link men.

Set-Piece Sorcery

Calhanoglu’s trademark dead-ball delivery produced 6 goals from corners last term, including the outswinger converted by Edin Džeko in the Champions League semi-final. His free-kick conversion rate of 14 % is the best in Serie A since 2020.

International Impact

Turkey’s captain has 17 goals in 82 caps, thriving as a No. 10 in Euro qualifiers. His long-range strike versus Latvia secured a first-place group finish, underlining his leadership credentials.

What’s Next for Hakan Calhanoglu?

With Marcelo Brozović departed, Inzaghi has entrusted Calhanoglu with deeper build-up duties. Early evidence—92 % pass success and a league-leading 36 final-third entries—suggests he is relishing the pivot role.

Opinion

Calhanoglu’s blend of vision, work rate and set-piece class makes him indispensable. If he maintains current metrics, a place among Serie A’s modern greats beckons.