Former Italy striker Mario Balotelli believes that Inter Milan are only behind Real Madrid and Manchester City for teams in Europe.
Speaking to Italian broadcaster TVPlay, via FCInterNews, the former striker argued that the Nerazzurri are very underrated.
Inter are starting to get to the business end of the Champions League.
Per yesterday’s round of sixteen draw, the Nerazzurri will take on Atletico Madrid in the next round.
This certainly means that Inter will have a tough tie on their hands.
But at the same time, Atletico will also have the feeling that they got one of the toughest opponents that they could have from those available, if not the single toughest.
Inter may have finished second in their Champions League group.
But the general view is certainly that the Nerazzurri were a team that the teams who topped their group would have wanted to avoid.
Inter are currently four points clear at the top of the Serie A table. And they are a team who reached the Champions League final last campaign.
Balotelli: Inter Just Behind Real Madrid & Man City In Europe
Balotelli said of Inter’s round of sixteen tie against Atletico that “The Nerazzurri are capable of dealing with the Spanish team.”
“They can go on to the next round,” the former striker continued.
“Simone Inzaghi’s team is underrated,” Balotelli argued.
“And in my opinion they can get to the quarterfinals.”
The former striker predicted that “The Champions League final could end up being Real Madrid against Manchester City.”
“Then behind them, Inter are the third force.”
Balotelli also noted that “Paris Saint-Germain do not strike me as being at that level. They didn’t impress me against Milan at all.”
Inter will take on Atletico in the next round in February and March. The first leg of the round of sixteen tie is set for February 20.