Inter Milan has reached the UEFA Champions League final for the second time in just three seasons, following a memorable semifinal victory against Barcelona. This achievement under coach Simone Inzaghi marks a significant period of success for the Italian club. After falling short in the 2023 final against Manchester City, the Nerazzurri now have another chance to clinch European football`s top prize. Regardless of their opponent in the upcoming final on May 31, there are compelling reasons why this Inter squad appears better equipped for the challenge compared to the team that played in Istanbul in 2023. Here’s a look at the key differences:
Enhanced European Experience and Mentality
Compared to the 2023 final, this Inter side possesses a more seasoned European mentality. Their run to the final last year, while impressive, was somewhat unexpected, aided by a potentially less daunting knockout path through Porto, Benfica, and AC Milan. Furthermore, their return to the knockout stages in the 2021-22 season after an 11-year absence saw them exit against Liverpool in the Round of 16. Fast forward to the present, and Inzaghi`s influence has clearly solidified the team`s European composure. Before overcoming Barcelona, they demonstrated their strength by finishing among the top eight teams in the league phase and eliminating tough opponents like Feyenoord and Bayern Munich. The journey feels less like a surprising achievement and more like the result of consistent growth and increased self-belief cultivated over recent years.
Lautaro Martinez`s Leadership and `Thu-La` Partnership
Since the summer of 2023, Lautaro Martinez has taken on the crucial role of club captain, succeeding Samir Handanovic. The Argentine forward has become the undisputed leader and face of this Inter team. His determination was evident in his swift recovery from a muscular injury just in time for the second leg against Barcelona, underscoring his deep desire to win the Champions League. Having already achieved major international honors like the 2022 World Cup and multiple Copa America titles, securing the Champions League would complete his set of major footballing dreams and potentially strengthen his case for individual accolades like the Ballon d`Or, where he finished 7th last year. Crucially, his performance has been elevated this season, partly thanks to his formidable partnership with Marcus Thuram. This `Thu-La` dynamic provides a different, perhaps more effective, attacking synergy compared to the partnerships he had with Edin Dzeko and Romelu Lukaku in 2023.
The Sense of a Cycle Culminating
Unlike some other top clubs, there`s a prevalent feeling around Inter that this period represents the potential peak or culmination for several members of the current squad. With the club`s new owners, Oaktree, reportedly planning significant roster changes and a focus on younger players in the summer of 2025, this final could well be seen as a “last dance” for the existing core group. While some players are expected to depart regardless of the final`s outcome, others will remain to guide the future transition. This upcoming evolution is not intended to be a disruptive break, but rather a planned shift aimed at sustaining the elite level achieved. This contrasts with the difficulty Inter faced in maintaining dominance after their historic Treble-winning season under Jose Mourinho in 2010. This time, the planned changes are geared towards building upon current success, adding an extra layer of motivation for the current squad to achieve glory together now.
Adrian Whitmore