Inter returns to SanSiro for the Champions League match against Club Brugge, after the championship victory over Parma. At last night's press conference, new coach Cristian Chivu and defender Manuel Akanji expressed their vision for the European competition, underlining the importance of courage, responsibility and the will to improve both individually and collectively.
Chivu said that Inter "need to dream, but above all to work to transform that dream into reality". He highlighted that the club is a "company that imposes ambitious objectives", but that it cannot afford to rely only on money, coaches or players to win the Champions League. “You have to have the courage to dream, but the work counts more than anything,” he added, referring to the need to maintain one's identity and build a competitive squad.
Regarding the composition of the team, Chivu confirmed that "some changes will be made", but also reiterated that Calha is fit and ready to play. He spoke of Spence, who recovered his physical form after a week of training and 25 minutes on Saturday, and of Bastoni, who had to face difficulties both on and off the pitch, but who remains a fundamental value for Inter and for Italy. The coach also expressed his appreciation for the growth of Sommer, who has shown respect and value in the team over the last three years.
Akanji reiterated the group's confidence, stating that "the goal is to enter the top eight and take a step forward". He underlined the importance of the five substitutions and energy management in such an intense competition, citing examples of matches against Monza and Napoli where the choice of players made the difference. He also highlighted that the team is ready to compete at a higher level, thanks to the diversity of alternatives and the ability to adapt to different formations.
The club said it considered the Champions League matches "very important", but also said it would tackle them "game by game". The match against Brugge is seen as an opportunity to demonstrate one's strength and to start a path of victories, with the aim of going far in European competition. The next match, scheduled for tomorrow, will be crucial to consolidate the group's confidence and to demonstrate that Inter is ready to compete with the best teams in Europe.