Former treble winner Goran Pandev has waxed lyrical about Inter Milan marquee signing Mehdi Taremi and his UEFA Champions League impact.
During a pre-Young Boys interview, as reported by FCInter1908, the ex-North Macedonia international discussed several hot subjects.
Artificial turf at the Stadion Wankdorf has been among the major talking points in the build-up to the game.
Pandev, who won the iconic treble under Jose Mourinho, has warned his former side of the ensuing challenges.
“Synthetic pitch? It’s very different from the grass,” he said. “I remember the quarter-finals in Moscow.
“Tonight, we have to start well. Changes of direction and passes must be more precise to get used to it immediately. Start strong immediately.
“Tonight is a very important match for Inter. Wearing this jersey means you have to play every three days, and you have to bring trophies home.
“Even if it’s a tricky game, if they start well and focus right away, Inter can play a great game.”
Pandev also offered his view of Simone Inzaghi’s line-up tweaks.
“I expected all these rotations. There is not much time to recover between the games.”
Inter Milan Treble Hero Goran Pandev Heaps Praise on Mehdi Taremi
After a brilliant display against Red Star Belgrade, Mehdi Taremi started tonight’s game in Bern.
The Iranian’s impressive Champions League start has caught Pandev’s attention.
“I like Taremi up front, the guy is doing impressive things in the Champions League.
“He is a great striker.
“I hope Inter start strong immediately and close the game afterward,” Pandev continued.
“Three points tonight are fundamental. Taremi is a great striker who can play in tandem with anyone. Congratulations to everyone for buying him.”
However, Pandev insists Inter cannot afford a lapse of concentration against Young Boys.
“At this level, it only takes 30 seconds to concede a goal. Inter fared well in the Champions league, they defended with the whole team.
“In my opinion, they have to do this; press high and not concede anything. Stay focused for more than 90 minutes.”
Pandev also praised Inter’s backline.
“Pavard and De Vrij are used to playing in Europe. Concentration can’t be lost for even 30 seconds.
“Yann Bisseck surprised me a lot. A very skilled and very fast defender. On fields like this, it makes the difference.
“The boy does excellent things, I hope he continues like this. I like him very much.
“Simone is giving him more first-team opportunities this season.”
Pandev also praised Yann Somme, saying: “He has a great technique.”
Davide Frattesi hasn’t slipped the North Macedonian’s eye.
“He has grown a lot, he feels the trust of the coach and the whole environment.
“His statistics in Spalletti’s national team are incredible. With Inter, he’s doing great things.
“Tonight, I bet everything on him, I feel he will score.”
