'It's an illness for many kids!' - Henrikh Mkhitaryan tells Inter youngsters to put their phones down as veteran midfielder says social media addiction is affecting performances

Having won Serie A with Inter and reached two Champions League finals, the 37-year-old is a trusted senior star for new coach Christian Chivu and his team. With the club now looking to build a younger squad and lower the average age under new ownership, the veteran midfielder has valuable advice to pass on to Inter’s emerging stars.

In an interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, Mkhitaryan outlined the dangers of using phones inside the club’s facilities, explaining how it can negatively impact players’ performances. 

He said: “If you look at the night sky, you see so many stars. If you focus on just one, you can't see the others. The same thing happens with your phone: if you only look at it, you can't see what's going on around you. That's why I don't like it being used too much in the locker room or the gym. This also affects performance: then on the pitch, you lower your head, you only look at the ball and you don't see your teammates. This is an illness for many kids; it goes far beyond football.”

Inter's 20-year-old striker Pio Esposito has received widespread praise for his performances this season, though his agent has urged fans and media to temper expectations. Mkhitaryan echoed those sentiments, expressing concern that the young forward is facing too much pressure too soon.

“Yes, too much [expectations], and I don't like it. He's a 20-year-old with great potential, but he needs the right amount of time," he added. "We can't overdo the expectations, otherwise we'll ruin him. Everyone has to take their own path, calmly, and you'll see that Italy will soon enjoy this treasure.”

After a slow start to the season in which Inter have already lost two of their first six matches, Mkhitaryan will hope to use his mentality and leadership to help the team get back on track in the title race. They are currently three points behind leaders Napoli.