AC Milan’s Samuel Chukwueze has delivered an unexpected take ahead of Saturday’s Champions League final, which will see Inter Milan clash with Paris Saint-Germain.
The Parisians, making only their second appearance in this final, aim to secure victory, having last lifted a significant European trophy with their UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup success in the 1995/96 season.
However, they face a formidable Italian outfit in Inter, who are vying for their fourth title in their seventh final appearance, with the game taking place at the renowned Allianz Arena in Munich.
While one might assume that the Nigerian winger would lean towards supporting their Milanese rivals, he has a different perspective altogether.
“Honestly, this final is set to be an incredibly challenging and intense match. Both squads have showcased impressive quality and rightfully earned their place here, so I anticipate it will be a fiercely contested game for either team,” he stated.
“Ultimately, I just hope the best side on the night claims the trophy.”
With 167 matches played in the Champions League, PSG hold the record for the fourth-most games without clinching the title since its inception in 1955, trailing only Arsenal (211), Dynamo Kyiv (185), and Atletico Madrid (176).
A win for Luis Enrique’s team would establish a new record for the most matches played before securing their inaugural Champions League title.
At present, Manchester City hold that record after seizing the trophy in their 117th match against Inter Milan in the 2023 final.
Chukwueze conceded that competing against Inter Milan presents a significant challenge, mainly due to the depth and quality of their squad.
“Facing Inter Milan is always a tough prospect as they’re a strong, seasoned side familiar with handling high-pressure matches.
“We haven’t faced this PSG squad yet, so this will be a unique test for us. This season alone, we’ve squared off against Inter roughly five times, remaining unbeaten in those encounters.
“We managed to secure three wins and draw the other two. But every match offers a different challenge, and we understand the need to give our all for a positive outcome.”
Earlier, winger Moses Simon, a teammate of Chukwueze on the national squad, voiced his support for the reigning French champions.
“Certainly, appearing in the final isn’t new for them; it’s part of their plan. I truly hope they emerge victorious. It wouldn’t just be for them but also for France.”
“PSG possesses all the necessary tools (to triumph over Inter Milan). I’ve played against them, and they have exceptional players.”
“However, they must not underestimate Inter Milan. They boast talented players like Martinez, who consistently finds the net. Inter have a strong side and have been together for a long while, just like PSG.”
“I’ll refrain from saying the best team should win; my only wish is for PSG to come out on top.”
Experience has been pivotal for Simone Inzaghi’s Inter this season, as they have given more minutes to players aged 30 and over than all but Atletico Madrid.
Their veteran players have logged a total of 6,151 minutes, the highest for any team in a single Champions League season since Juventus’ 6,186 minutes in 2016/17.
In contrast, PSG have allocated only 1,350 minutes to players over 30, all of which have come from Marquinhos.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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