Injury-Hit Inter Braced for Bayern Test of Intensity

TDT | Manama

Email : hussianm@newsofbahrain.com

Inter Milan head into a daunting Champions League quarter-final first leg against Bayern Munich today, with manager Simone Inzaghi acknowledging that his injury-hit squad faces a stern test at the Allianz Arena. Despite concerns over several key players, Inzaghi is determined to approach the match with confidence and fight.

Bayern Munich, unbeaten in their last 22 home matches in the Champions League, are the clear favourites for the tie. The German giants have a reputation for intensity, which they have maintained for years, making them one of the leading contenders for this season's title. Inzaghi is under no illusions about the scale of the challenge ahead but insists his side will not shy away from the battle.

“They are an experienced squad, they have absences just like Inter. They press hard, are intense, and for many years have gone far in this competition,” Inzaghi said in his pre-match press conference. “Along with Real Madrid, they are the big favourites for the trophy, but we are still coming here to play a great game.”

Inter Milan are still in contention for a treble, sitting at the top of Serie A and progressing to the Coppa Italia semi-finals. But injuries are starting to take their toll, with key players like Hakan Calhanoglu, Alessandro Bastoni, and Federico Dimarco all struggling for fitness ahead of the match.

“Bastoni and Calhanoglu trained with the squad this morning, so they need to be evaluated, while Dimarco worked separately,” Inzaghi explained. “Lautaro Martinez was only meant to play the first half at Parma, but played 70 minutes. He is fine, and I think he will play tomorrow.”

Inzaghi knows that Bayern’s trademark intensity will demand an all-out team effort if his side is to have any chance of upsetting the odds. He emphasized the importance of collective determination and energy in what is sure to be an intense battle.

“It’s a characteristic of Bayern — every time I’ve faced them, I’ve found them to be an intense team. It will be a match to approach with energy and determination, all together. Everyone will need to be involved,” Inzaghi said.

Despite the challenges, Inzaghi remains optimistic about Inter's chances and is determined to give a strong account of his side in one of the most difficult tests of the season.