Inter Milan is gearing up for an intense period of competition as they aim to succeed both domestically and on the European stage. Following their recent struggles to secure wins against rivals, the Nerazzurri face Genoa this weekend before entering the next round of the Champions League against Feyenoord. Pressure mounts as the team has ambitions of winning both the Serie A and the Champions League this season, sparking excitement among fans and players alike.
According to reports from Italian outlet Gazzetta dello Sport, some changes may be anticipated for the Serie A match against Genoa. Hakan Calhanoglu could potentially be dropped from the starting eleven as coach Simone Inzaghi considers giving him some rest. Instead, Joaquin Correa is set to fill the gap, making his second start of the season. Calhanoglu's performance has not been at his best lately, which might prompt the coaching staff to prioritize fresh legs as they prepare for two challenging fixtures.
With the Serie A clash being labeled as virtually must-win for Inter, especially after dropping points against giants such as AC Milan, Fiorentina, and Juventus, the stakes could not be higher. Their draw with Genoa earlier this season offers some caution, as the match concluded 2-2 at the Marassi on opening day. Fans hold their breath as they look to see if Inter can turn the tides and display their capabilities against teams they struggled with previously.
Defensively, Inter will have to adapt to Yann Sommer's absence due to injury, with Josep Martinez poised to make his first Serie A start against his former side, Genoa. Martinez's performance could prove pivotal not only for the match but also for his confidence moving forward, especially as the club navigates both Serie A and Champions League fixtures.
Looking beyond Serie A, Inter's path through the Champions League has become more defined as they prepare to take on Feyenoord next month. Defender Stefan de Vrij expressed emotional ties to Feyenoord, admitting, "Feyenoord holds a special place in my heart," underscoring the significance of the upcoming two-legged encounter for him. De Vrij acknowledged the strength of Feyenoord, especially after they knocked out their city rivals AC Milan. His insights reflect the respect Inter must show to Feyenoord as they prepare for their clash.
Inter's coach Simone Inzaghi, reflecting on the Champions League draw, emphasized the team's ambitions, stating, "We want to make our dreams a reality in the Champions League this season". This sentiment resonates throughout the club, as both players and staff recognize the importance of this competition and the potential it holds for the team's legacy. The chance to secure European glory presents both excitement and pressure as they prepare to face formidable opponents on their way to the knockout stage.
Adding to the pressure is the looming Serie A title race, with key matches against top club Napoli on the horizon. Inter has struggled during recent encounters, which makes their desire to lift the Scudetto this season all the more pressing. Defender Benjamin Pavard was vocal about the team's goals, stating, "We want to win everything," when pressed about their ambitions for the year. His confidence reflects the determination among the squad, emphasizing their readiness to face all challenges.
Pavard also pointed out the unique pressures presented by Napoli, who currently lead the Serie A table. He suggests their position brings additional pressure; "Napoli have more pressure. We won the title last season, and now everyone wants to beat us." The intensity of competition is palpable as all teams aim to dethrone the champions.
While Inter's resolve is clear, the challenges on both fronts are significant. The team is aware of the need to recapture form, especially against direct rivals, something Pavard highlighted when discussing the importance of winning the next match as they strive for the Scudetto. The enthusiasm surrounding the Champions League and their potential advancing rounds adds another layer to their ambitions.
With the season moving forward, Inter Milan players reflect the club's dual aspirations for Serie A and the Champions League, each challenge invigorated by their historic pursuit of success. Their statements reflect not just individual sentiments but also the collective goal of the squad, which remains focused and determined to achieve glory on both fronts. For fans, each matchday carries the weight of expectation, hope, and belief as the Nerazzurri continue their quest for silverware.