Shaqiri can’t rule out one thing for Inter and says injuries could impact Bayern

Xherdan Shaqiri doesn’t feel like making a prediction for the upcoming Champions League clash between Bayern Munich and Inter, two of his former teams, but he stated that the prospect of a treble can’t be ruled out for the Nerazzurri due to the ‘great spirit’ they’ve shown so far.

The Switzerland international spent six months at Inter in 2015, arriving as one of the most exciting signings of their January transfer window before moving to Stoke City shortly after. He struggled to deliver under Roberto Mancini, who had expressed the desire to sign him to strengthen the squad at the time.

“A great coach, even though at the time the team wasn’t built in an optimal way,” Shaqiri said in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport.

“The period around the club was turbulent. Many players came on loan, and Financial Fair Play had a significant weight. It was a complicated time overall, not just for me.

“Things started well, but as time went on, difficulties increased. Despite everything, I had a lot of fun at Inter. It’s an experience I would repeat.”

Shaqiri: Inter have ‘great spirit’, but need ‘a good dose of luck’ to win treble

Inter now find themselves in a completely different situation, aiming to reach the Champions League final for the second time in three seasons, but Shaqiri couldn’t say who the favorite is between the Nerazzurri and the Bavarian giants to reach the semifinals.

“Having played for both clubs and experienced great moments with both Inter and Bayern, it’s a tough question for me,” he said.

“I can’t make a prediction. I’ll simply cheer for the best team.”

The attacking midfielder, currently playing for Basel, admitted that Bayern could be affected by the recent wave of injuries, although he believes their deep squad will help them cope with it.

“That’s definitely an aspect that can have an impact, especially because Bayern’s defence was well-constructed,” Shaqiri explained.

“But Bayern also have a lot of quality on the bench. Let’s say the absences could, but shouldn’t, have an impact.”

Shaqiri mentioned ‘luck’ as one of the factors that can help teams achieve a historic feat like a treble, something that can’t be ‘ruled out’ for Inter. He also emphasised that the Nerazzurri are not a surprise to him, given the excellent work Simone Inzaghi has been doing at the club.

“[Treble is] Very difficult, but not impossible,” the 33-year-old added.

“To achieve such a goal, you need a perfect season and certainly a good dose of luck. But Inter have a very good team and great spirit, so it’s certainly not to be ruled out.

“From the outside, I perceive him [Inzaghi] as a very active, present coach who is doing his job really well.

“He coaches in a very practical way, motivating his players right on the pitch. For me, it’s no surprise to see Inter where they are today.”