Inter Milan coach Simone Inzaghi delivered a clear message to his squad: concentration, not obsession, will be key to overcoming Paris Saint-Germain at the Allianz Arena in Munich. Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Inzaghi emphasized the need for a balanced mindset as his team seeks to avenge their 1-0 loss to Manchester City in the 2023 final and claim their fourth European crown. Despite a trophyless domestic campaign, with Inter finishing second in Serie A to Napoli and falling in the Coppa Italia and Supercoppa Italiana, Inzaghi’s focus is firmly on the European stage, where his team has thrived against top competition.
Inter’s journey to their seventh Champions League final has been marked by resilience and tactical brilliance, with standout victories over Manchester City, Arsenal, Bayern Munich, and a dramatic 7-6 aggregate triumph over Barcelona in the semifinals. Inzaghi, known for his revival of the 3-5-2 formation, praised his squad’s determination but cautioned against letting their desire for redemption cloud their judgment. “I have seen determination and not the obsession that shouldn’t be there,” Inzaghi told reporters, highlighting the importance of a clear and focused approach. “Instead, there should be the right concentration and determination, and this is what the guys have shown me in these days. I asked for concentration, not obsession, so we can prepare with a free mind.”
Facing a PSG side that has swept every trophy this season under coach Luis Enrique, Inzaghi acknowledged the challenge ahead. “To win, we’ll need everything; every detail will matter,” he said, stressing the need for “aggressiveness, clarity, and attention to detail” against a team he described as “the best European team in terms of possession and quality.” He expressed admiration for Enrique, calling him a “great coach,” but remained confident in Inter’s ability to compete. “We respect them a lot, but we know we can hurt them. We just have to think positively,” Inzaghi added, drawing on the experience of a squad that includes world and European champions.
Inzaghi confirmed that his entire squad is fit, with defender Benjamin Pavard returning after missing the semifinal and recent league matches. “Having everyone available is better than anyone could ask for,” he said, noting that Inter had a fully fit roster in only three of their 59 matches this season. This depth, combined with the experience of reaching two Champions League finals in three years, gives Inzaghi confidence. “The psychological side is important. We’ve worked to leave the disappointment of the Scudetto behind us,” he said, referencing the team’s ability to refocus after losing the Serie A title to Napoli just days ago.
The 48-year-old coach, dubbed “Il demone di Piacenza” for his tactical ingenuity, also addressed speculation about his future amid interest from Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, which reportedly offered €50 million for two seasons. Inzaghi dismissed the rumors, stating, “It would be crazy to think of anything other than this match. Tomorrow, we’ll sit with the directors and see if the conditions are right to continue in harmony.” His focus remains on delivering Inter’s first Champions League title since 2010 under Jose Mourinho, a feat that would cement his legacy as one of Europe’s elite managers.