Legendary Italian manager Arrigo Sacchi only had positive things to say regarding Inter Milan following their courageous showing against Manchester City.
The Italian champions kickstarted their Champions League campaign with a clash against their English counterparts at the Etihad Stadium.
The Nerazzurri produced a gritty display and escaped the lion’s den with a valuable point.
Simone Inzaghi’s men held firm at the back and came close to scoring on several counterattacks. In the end, neither side managed to find the back of the net.
Nevertheless, Sacchi applauded Inter for their display, saying it has confirmed the club’s status among the European elite.
“Inter did very well. The draw in Manchester, against Guardiola’s great City, certifies that the Nerazzurri have truly reached high levels, and can stay there,” said the former AC Milan and Italy coach in his column for La Gazzetta dello Sport via FcInterNews.
“The thing I liked most about Inter was the display of courage. Yes, because the Nerazzurri did not go to Manchester to build barricades, or to suffer City’s domination.
“Every time an action by the English ended, the Nerazzurri were ready to turn the tables, with very dangerous counterattacks.
“This means that in terms of mentality, Inzaghi’s team has made a notable step forward.
“Now, they’re acting as they should in Europe, they try to take possession of the pitch and intimidate the opponent. Inter’s courage is truly great news, because without fear you can reach any goal.”
Arrigo Sacchi Heaps Praise On Inter Milan Following Strong Showing In Manchester
Sacchi insists the Italian champions boast everything they require to go all the way to the end in Europe’s elite club competition.
“I repeat: we’re there, we’re finally there. And in my opinion, this Inter has everything they need to be a protagonist in the Champions League.
“They have a large squad, experience, excellent technique, tactical knowledge, and notable physical qualities.
“I really liked Barella’s display, He worked hard in both phases, he sacrificed himself in coverage and, when he had the chance, he also launched himself forward.
“Thuram is a striker of rare intelligence and was also very useful, especially in counterattacks.
“In any case, everyone, I repeat everyone, was up to the task. This means that Inzaghi prepared the team well first and then the match, that he gave the right instructions and that he knew how to correctly interpret what was happening on the pitch.
“Finally I saw an Italian team go to England, to the home of the kings of football, without fear and with the desire to show what they can do.”