Matteo Darmian expects a ‘tough game’ against Arsenal but insists Inter will focus on the entire Gunners squad and ‘not only’ Bukayo Saka.
Inter host Arsenal at San Siro on Wednesday in the Champions League Round 4.
Former Manchester United defender Darmian previewed the game at a pre-match press conference alongside his Inter coach Simone Inzaghi.
Saka will be one of Arsenal’s key players, but Darmian said he and his teammates had not solely focused on the English winger.
“No, we must keep a close eye on everyone,” said the Inter defender via TMW.
“He is a key player for them and has great quality in one-v-one.
Darmian on Inter, Arsenal, Saka and why Premier League looks ‘faster’ than Serie A
“However, Arsenal are not just one player, but an important collective. They have quality and we’ll need great teamwork defensively, and not only.
“Arsenal have challenged Manchester City for the Premier League title, they are well-equipped. We’ve won important trophies in the last few seasons. It will be tough, but we want all three points.”
Darmian’s teammate Lautaro Martinez has complained about finishing 7th in the 2024 Ballon d’Or ranking despite winning Serie A and Copa America as the best scorer last term.
“I don’t know whether it’s fair or not, but Lauti is a top player, and obviously, he always aims for the best,” noted Darmian.
“That’s what we also want. We’ll always try to put him in the best condition [to score]but he doesn’t need many words. He’s an excellent player and a great captain.”
Liverpool coach Arne Slot has recently claimed that Federico Chiesa’s fitness issues are partially due to the lowest intensity Serie A has compared to the Premier League.
“I don’t know. I’ve played in the Premier League, and surely, it’s a different type of football in terms of culture,” said Darmian.
“There are fewer tactics, so games look faster, but I think Serie A is also a tough league. It’s proved by the fact that English teams struggle when meeting the Italians. We’ll try to play our game tomorrow; we are aware of our strengths. We respect our opponents and try to win all our games.”
Darmian was part of the Italy squad at Euro 2024 but was not called up for international games in September and October.
“The national team is important and a target for every player,” he concluded.
“Spalletti is going on a positive path with young players. He is creating a group that is doing well. I want to do well with my club, then I’ll see.”
