Inter Milan coach Simone Inzaghi believes his side will have to show the 'real' version of themselves against Cagliari this evening.
Inzaghi spoke to Italian channel DAZN, via FCInterNewsahead of today's Serie A clash with the Rossoblu. He also took stock of the physical fitness of Benjamin Pavard, Matteo Darmian and Francesco Acerbi.
On paper, Inter are certainly favorites for tonight's match.
The Nerazzurri are the reigning Italian champions. And this season, they are in the thick of things at the top of the standings, even if the field is much fuller than last time.
Cagliari, on the other hand, are in the bottom three of the rankings.
The Sardinians won't be too surprised to have a relegation fight on their hands.
But arguably, the results haven't lived up to Cagliari's performances this season. Especially in recent weeks.
Cagliari had a good chance of getting a result against Fiorentina and Atalanta, for example.
In addition, today Davide Nicola's team is playing in front of their home crowd. This could certainly become a factor.
Simone Inzaghi: “We need real Inter” against Cagliari
Even with Cagliari's intense motivation to get a result and undeniable quality, Inter should have what it takes to achieve the victory they seek.
But not if they play presumptuous or complacent.
Inter coach Simone Inzaghi said: “We will need a good start.”
“We have been coming here to Cagliari for many years,” said the Nerazzurri coach. “The fans here really push the team, they are good at starting games strong.”
“But we prepared,” Inzaghi said.
“We need to get off to a better start than in the last two matches.”
“Even in great moments of form, you can still improve every day,” emphasized Inzaghi.
Inzaghi noted: “We know we have the Supercoppa coming up, and that is very important for us.”
“But at the moment our only thought is towards Cagliari.”
“They have just suffered three consecutive defeats. But these losses came despite excellent performances.
“Tactically they are a very well-organized team,” Inzaghi said of Cagliari. “They have a good coach.”
“We will have to play like real Inter,” said the coach.
Inzaghi also noted that “we had five days to prepare after Como.”
“We celebrated Christmas with our families,” said the Inter coach.
“We have de Vrij back from injury,” noted Inzaghi. The Dutchman is back in the starting XI this evening.
“And then Acerbi, Pavard and Darmian stayed behind. We will try to get them back as quickly as possible.
