Former Inter and Fiorentina midfielder Borja Valero feels that the Nerazzurri have entered something of a slump.
Speaking to Italian broadcaster DAZN, via FCInterNews, the Spaniard suggested that in terms of all of technique, physicality, and mentality, the Inter squad are not looking to be in their best condition.
Sunday evening’s Serie A loss to Bologna was certainly a low point for Inter’s season.
The Nerazzurri would certainly have been considered favourites to win the match on paper, and have shown that they have the necessary quality to do so on many occasions this season.
However, on the day Inter looked off the pace, physically lagging and slow to make decisions, missing their passes, and as though their heads dropped when Plan A was not coming off.
From the view of Valero, this is the look of a team who are struggling to show their best.
“Qualifying for the Champions League is now a more difficult objective because Inter have to fight against four other teams,” Valero suggested.
“I think that the team is in a bit of a down period on a physical and technical level, it immediately looked like Bologna were doing better at the start of the match.”
“Both physical and mental decline was noticeable, after spending so much energy against Porto it was difficult to travel to Bologna and that was visible,” he continued.
“I wouldn’t yet say that Champions League qualification is at serious risk as they’re still second, but they would have given themselves more of a cushion by beating Bologna,” he added.
