Italian journalist Massimo Marianella considers Inter Milan as one of the contenders for the Champions League trophy this season.
The Nerazzurri finished second in their UCL group behind Real Sociedad and will now resume their European campaign against another Spanish opponent.
Simone Inzaghi’s men will host Atletico Madrid next Tuesday in the first leg of the Round of 16.
The second stage of the competition kicked off yesterday with Real Madrid and Man City registering routine wins over RB Leipzig and Copenhagen respectively.
The Cityzens are the defending champions while Los Merengues remain a perennial contender.
Nevertheless, Marianella still considers Inter Milan among the potential challengers.
Massimo Marianella Belives Inter Milan Can Have Their Say In The Champions League This Season
The Italian giants reached the final of the previous edition before falling just short against Pep Guardiola’s men despite a valiant effort.
The Italian journalist also names Arsenal as another outside bet.
“Are Manchester City and Real Madrid the Champions League favorites? There are three clubs that I consider as favorites, but they are not the only ones,” noted Marianella during his appearance on Sky Sport 24 via FcInter1908.
“I would also include Arsenal among the big favorites. We are talking about a very strong team.
“However, Inter are also among the teams that can aspire to win the trophy. Bayern Munich is also there, even if they aren’t going through a great period as of late.”
Inter have managed to open a seven-point gap in the Serie A standings while having an extra match in hand.
This advantage will allow them to focus on their major showdown against Atletico next week. In the meantime, Inzaghi is expected to rotate his ranks on Friday against Salernitana.
