Simone Inzaghi: We Haven’t Found Last Season’s Stability; Every Champions League Match Is a Battle for Survival

On Monday, Inter Milan coach Simone Inzaghi attended the pre-match press conference ahead of their home Champions League game against Red Star Belgrade.

Regarding the team’s situation, Inzaghi stated, “Winning matches is already challenging, and maintaining consecutive victories is even more difficult. The players are giving their all, but we have not yet reached the level of stability we had last year. Every team faces its own difficulties and seeks improvement, and we are no exception. We just reviewed Saturday’s match, discussing the reasons for conceding goals. Defensive errors are not solely the responsibility of the defenders but an issue for the entire team. However, we are actively addressing this, and I am confident in the team.”

Speaking about the upcoming match, Inzaghi predicted, “Considering the impact of the new format, the three points from this match are particularly crucial. Last year, we could draw initial conclusions after the first two rounds, but now every match is like a battle for survival with the number of games increasing and the difficulty rising. Our schedule is quite tight, but we must give our all and focus on each match.”

He emphasized the importance of focus, “Focus is key. We consistently adhere to certain principles, and sometimes we need to collaborate more closely. Inter Milan must show consistency and not allow any opportunities for the opposition. Currently, we must be more vigilant as we face strong opponents both in the league and the Champions League.”

Regarding whether the new Champions League format benefits the team, Inzaghi pointed out, “I am still considering my forward options. Lautaro, Thuram, Arnautovic, and Taremi all have a chance to start. This year’s format is indeed more challenging, and we must maintain high concentration in every match, just as we did in Manchester. Red Star Belgrade is a well-drilled team with many excellent players, and this match will be full of variables; we must be fully prepared.”

In response to Barella’s absence, Inzaghi revealed, “Frattesi is in great form, and I am considering starting him.”

Regarding Bisevac’s view that last season’s success is hard to replicate, Inzaghi responded, “In the league, we finished third, only two points behind the top. Everyone needs to find their certainty, especially the kind of consistency that brings change. I was very satisfied with Bisevac’s performance in Saturday’s match, and he must continue to perform this way.”

Finally, regarding Dumfries’ contract extension, Inzaghi revealed, “Although it has not been officially announced, the possibility of an extension is significant. Dumfries is a very important player, and I am very happy about this. As for tomorrow’s match, both he and Zielinski will play.”