Former Inter Milan coach Alberto Zaccheroni feels that the Nerazzurri must remain “tough and compact” against Man City next month.

Speaking to Milan-based newspaper Corriere della Sera in an interview published in today’s print edition, via FCInter1908, the former Juventus, AC Milan, and Lazio coach gave his thoughts on what Inter will have to do in the Champions League final.

This season, Inter have managed to play a fluid, possession-based style of play to good effect at times.

However, this has not the only way that the Nerazzurri have been able to get results.

At other times, Inter have really managed to rely on a more physical, gritty, and organized defensive game.

In the Champions League, the Nerazzurri have seemingly switched between the two at will. Inter’s approach has always been dictated by the particular demands of the match and the moment.

Against all of Barcelona, Porto, Benfica, and AC Milan, Inter have had moments where they’ve imposed a high tempo of play and looked to work the ball into the opposition half of the pitch.

However, the Nerazzurri have never been shy about relying on a more compact shape when they have had to.

Against Manchester City next month, it could be the case that Inter have to put even greater focus on that kind of compactness. The Cityzens are a hugely formidable team in possession.

Zaccheroni: Inter Milan Must Be Tough Vs Man City

That is certainly what former Inter coach Zaccheroni thinks.

Asked who the favourites are in Istanbul, the former coach replied that  “If we’re talking about the tournament as a whole, the smart money says Manchester City.”

“But in a one-off match, Inter can go for it,” he continued.

“If Inzaghi’s team remains tough and compact, with their players who have character, anything can happen.”