On April 27, 2025, Inter Milan faced yet another setback, suffering a 1-0 defeat against AS Roma at San Siro. This marks the Nerazzurri's third consecutive loss across all competitions, raising serious questions about the team's direction and mentality as they prepare for the upcoming Champions League semifinal against Barcelona.
Former player and current pundit Paolo Di Canio did not hold back in his criticism of head coach Simone Inzaghi, suggesting that the team lacks motivation and determination. "If this is the real version of Inter, with two games coming up against Barcelona, they’ll struggle to get a result against anyone," Di Canio stated during a segment on Sky Sport. He pointed out that after 15 rounds of play, Inter had already accrued seven fewer points than the previous season, indicating a troubling decline.
Inter's recent form has been a stark contrast to their earlier performances this season. Di Canio noted that the players have been caught off guard multiple times, having been pegged back 11 times in the last 20 minutes of games this season. "You can’t only blame it on fatigue when you concede twice against Parma. Inter have been pegged back too many times, and it’s not just about being tired," he continued.
The match against Roma was particularly disappointing, as the team appeared disjointed and lacked the cutting edge that had characterized their play earlier in the season. Di Canio observed, "Inter's performance was abulic and ineffective, especially in the first half. They seemed long, disjointed, and lacking in bite." This decline has left fans and analysts alike questioning the team's resolve and character.
One bright spot for Inter during the match was defender Francesco Acerbi, who displayed passion and determination, celebrating a crucial defensive play as if it were a goal. "The only one I saw celebrating when Inter were 1-0 down was Acerbi. He made me feel sorry for him. He’s the only one who still believes, while the others just turn their backs," remarked Di Canio. This moment stood in stark contrast to the apparent apathy of his teammates, who seemed to lack the same level of commitment.
Di Canio emphasized the need for players with grit and determination, likening the situation to that of Real Madrid, where players like Dani Carvajal embody the spirit and tenacity needed in crucial moments. He stated, "Inzaghi is good at making the team play well, but lacks something in management. You need to bring something home in crucial moments, and this team isn't doing that right now." Di Canio's comments underscore the growing frustration with the team's inability to perform under pressure.
As the season progresses, the stakes are rising for Inter. With just four games remaining in Serie A, they find themselves in a precarious position, particularly with Napoli poised to extend their lead at the top of the table if they secure a victory against Torino later tonight. "If the Inter is this, they will struggle to win against any team," Di Canio warned, highlighting the urgency for the players to regain their form.
Inzaghi's tenure has been marked by moments of brilliance, but recent performances have raised doubts about his ability to motivate and manage the squad effectively. While he has been praised for his tactical acumen and the team's playing style, the current slump has led to questions about his leadership. "We have applauded the journey, but now you have to bring something home," Di Canio stated, emphasizing that the time for results is now.
The upcoming Champions League semifinal against Barcelona will undoubtedly serve as a crucial turning point for Inter. With the team's confidence wavering and their recent form in question, the match will test not only their skills on the pitch but also their mental fortitude. Di Canio's remarks resonate with the urgency of the situation: "Inzaghi is excellent at certain things, but there is a management issue that needs to be addressed."
As the players prepare for this pivotal clash, fans are left hoping that Inter can find the resolve to turn their season around. With the pressure mounting and their title aspirations hanging in the balance, the coming weeks will be critical for both Inzaghi and his squad. The time for excuses is over; it’s time to show what they’re made of.
