Inzaghi: ‘Inter players are human, but know what’s worth listening to’

LECCE, ITALY – JANUARY 26: Head coach of FC Internazionale Simone Inzaghi looks on prior the Serie A match between Lecce and FC Internazionale at Stadio Via del Mare on January 26, 2025 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)

Simone Inzaghi did not hide his irritation at suggestions that Inter’s second-half substitutions at Parma — which allegedly allowed the hosts to mount a comeback — were tactical decisions made by him and his staff. “I wanted to see what would be written,” he remarked during his pre-match press conference ahead of Inter’s Champions League quarter-final clash with Bayern Munich.

The Nerazzurri squandered a two-goal lead, eventually drawing 2-2 with Cristian Chivu’s side, but Inzaghi was keen to stress that all four changes were ‘forced’ — either due to injuries or to protect players’ fitness ahead of the European tie.

While Inter have recently faced questions about their domestic focus — especially after dropping points at Parma — the coach admitted that maintaining full concentration in every match is something he occasionally struggles with, noting that ‘they’re human’.

Inzaghi: Bayern always ‘intense’, Inter must approach with ‘energy and determination’

“It’s not always easy to keep them fully focused, because like me, they’re human and they hear what’s being said,” Inzaghi told reporters during a press conference attended by Football Italia.

“I could have told Farris to explain that the first four substitutions on Saturday were forced, but I chose not to — I wanted to see what would be written. All four changes were due to injuries, not tactical decisions.

“Unfortunately, as always happens, a lot was said — too much, really — but the boys are smart, and they know what’s worth listening to.

“The players were the first to know that we needed to win in Parma. That result hurts us, considering the objectives we have.”

When asked how his side plans to cope with Bayern Munich’s trademark intensity, particularly at home, Inzaghi emphasised the importance of teamwork.

“It’s a characteristic of Bayern — every time I’ve faced them, I’ve found them to be an intense team,” Inzaghi added.

“We’re here with five players out, and so are Bayern, so it will be a match to approach with energy and determination, all together. Everyone will need to be involved.”

“Bayern have experienced players, just like we do. They play great football — intense pressing, quick reactions, and vertical movement.”

Lastly, on Thomas Muller:

“He’s a champion — the active player who has won the most titles, and he earned every single one of them,” the coach concluded.

“He’s someone I really admire, and every time I’ve faced him, he’s caused my players a lot of problems.”