Inter Milan’s Simone Inzaghi Stresses the Importance of Focus Over Obsession in Clash with PSG

Inter Milan are keen to make up for their defeat in the 2023 Champions League final, although manager Simone Inzaghi cautioned on Friday against letting their determination spill over into obsession as they prepare to face Paris St Germain in this year’s final.

Despite finishing their domestic season without silverware, Inzaghi and his squad are eager to erase the memories of Istanbul and their loss to Manchester City. However, they are mindful not to allow their zealousness to turn into an unhealthy fixation ahead of Saturday’s clash in Munich.

“I’ve witnessed determination, rather than an unhealthy obsession which we need to avoid,” Inzaghi told the media.

“What we need is the right focus and determination, and that’s exactly what the lads have shown me in recent days.

“This week, I asked them to focus and be determined, but not to become obsessed; we need to be mentally free to prepare in the best way.”

Inzaghi believes that his team possesses both the experience and talent to execute their game plan on Saturday, leaving behind the disappointment of losing the Serie A title to Napoli.

“The mental aspect is vital; we’ve approached things in the best way, setting aside any disappointments,” Inzaghi explained.

“We understand how to prepare for matches like this; we have world champions and European champions in our ranks.

“The experience we’ve gained in reaching the Champions League final is critical; it’s as significant as a World Cup final or a European Championship final.”

As he heads into the most crucial match of the season, Inzaghi confirmed that his entire squad is fit and available, having announced that defender Benjamin Pavard is back after missing the semi-final against Barcelona and the last four league fixtures.

“All the players are available; out of our 59 matches this year, we’ve only had a full squad of 23 for three of them,” Inzaghi stated.

“This gives a coach immense confidence. Having everyone fit is better than anyone could possibly hope for, as you know you can rely on all the players, who I take great pride in coaching.”

When asked what his team needs most to defeat Luis Enrique’s PSG, who have secured every trophy they’ve contested this season, Inzaghi responded with a clear message.

“Aggressiveness, clarity—there could be many more factors because winning a match of this magnitude requires total engagement,” Inzaghi highlighted.

“It requires everything, along with meticulous attention to the details we are ensuring we manage well, knowing that we’re up against a great team that has rightfully earned their place in the final, just like Inter, who bring incredible strength and an excellent coach.”

Looking back at their past loss to City, team captain Lautaro Martinez, who boasts a World Cup title and two Copa America championships with his national side, is eager to secure a club-level accolade.

Despite a recent muscle injury to his leg sustained in Inter’s semi-final first leg against Barcelona, the Argentinian striker asserted that he is in peak form and confident that the lessons learned from their previous defeat to City will be crucial in clinching Inter’s first Champions League title in 15 years.

“Winning finals pertains to executing a flawless game and attending to every small detail,” Martinez noted.

“It’s a final, and we must stay focused and prepare diligently to ensure we are alert, rested, and ready for anything PSG throws at us.

“We respect our opponents, but we’re confident that we can harm them. We must maintain a positive mindset. I’ve been living and playing in Italy for several years now, in a club that has embraced me like family. I cherish this journey and the chance to play in another final. We deserve this opportunity for all the sacrifices we’ve made together.”