ROME - Manu Koné scored his first career brace, dragging AS Roma to a draw against Inter in a match that reaffirmed his priceless value. The French midfielder, author of both Giallorossi goals in the 2-2 draw on September 19, finished the game with the man of the match award.
His two goals, scored in the 6th and 37th minutes with assists from Molina and Mancini, allowed Daniele De Rossi's team to maintain top spot in the standings with 13 points. Roma are unbeaten in their last five league games, with a record of three wins and two draws. The team has scored 14 goals in five matchdays, with Donyell Malen the season's top scorer on 6.
A €60 Million Pillar
In his third year at Roma, Koné has now surpassed 80 appearances in the yellow and red shirt and is considered one of the best central midfielders in the league. His market value, estimated at €60 million, makes him the club's most prized asset. His performance against Inter, a team that had previously tried to sign him, had the flavour of a statement of intent. "Back off Inter, Chelsea and Manchester, Koné is ours," the player said after the match.
The Void Behind Him
Roma's dependence on his dynamic qualities is clear when analysing the alternatives. Niccolò Pisilli, while promising, is young and inconsistent. Marten De Roon, 35, is in the twilight of his career and more defensively focused. Bryan Cristante offers different, less explosive and incisive characteristics. Koné remains the only midfield option capable of combining physicality, ball progression and arrivals in the goal area. His importance for De Rossi's project is absolute, as shown by the team's performance which can be tracked in the standings.
With the international break underway, Roma will return to action on October 11 away to Como, who sit eighth in the table. Koné, fresh from his France call-up, will be the reference point to maintain the Serie A summit, while the full schedule is available in our fixtures.
This story first appeared at sports.yahoo.com
