Inter Faces Shakhtar Donetsk at San Siro Looking for First Champions League Points
Inter Milan enters its upcoming Champions League fixture against Shakhtar Donetsk at San Siro seeking its first points of the European campaign after opening with consecutive losses. Manager Cristian Chivu and defender Alessandro Bastoni addressed the media ahead of the match, outlining the squad’s approach to the European competition and addressing recent domestic and continental form.
Chivu Accepts Full Responsibility After Opening European Defeats
Following losses in its first two matches of the Champions League, Inter manager Cristian Chivu stated during a press conference that he bears sole responsibility for the team’s results. Chivu dismissed concerns regarding a run of seven losses in eight European fixtures extending back to last season, telling reporters that dwelling on past outcomes serves no purpose.
Chivu defended his players and criticized the surrounding narrative, remarking that losses do not constitute a national tragedy. The manager emphasized that his squad faces an expectation to win that other competitors do not share, while maintaining confidence in the group’s ongoing development.
When asked about the team trailing six times this season and overturning the score in four of those instances, Chivu stated that he is an optimist who looks at positive reactions and has analyzed why they conceded, noting he wants his players to enjoy themselves even during adversity.
Bastoni Urges Realism Regarding Champions League Ambitions
Defender Alessandro Bastoni spoke alongside his manager to emphasize the necessity of focusing on immediate realities rather than past achievements. Bastoni stated that the club’s recent finals belong to the past and that the Champions League represents a dream rather than an objective for the current squad.
Squad Selection and Opponent Assessment Ahead of San Siro Clash
Inter faces selection decisions ahead of the fixture, including a potential debut for goalkeeper Provedel or a start for Martínez, alongside a possible starting role for Bonny alongside Esposito in the absence of the injured Lautaro. Hakan Çalhanoğlu is expected to return to the playmaker role. Spence also hopes to make his debut or secure more consistent playing time.
Analyzing the opposition, Chivu described Shakhtar Donetsk as a prepared and ambitious side that travels to Milan with quality and tactical determination. The manager asserted that no European fixture offers a simple path to victory, requiring the right will, attitude, and determination to win.
When and Where Is the Inter Match?
When and where is the match between Inter and Shakhtar Donetsk taking place?
The fixture takes place at San Siro, with kickoff scheduled for Wednesday at 20.45.
What is Inter’s current record in the Champions League this season?
Inter enters the match with two losses in its first two fixtures of the current Champions League campaign.
Which player is missing from Inter’s lineup due to injury?
Inter is playing without the injured Lautaro for the fixture against Shakhtar Donetsk.
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