Inter coach Simone Inzaghi and former Milan and Italy boss Arrigo Sacchi have been making headlines in the build-up to Tuesday evening’s Champions League group stage fixtures with a difference in opinion over the Nerazzurri’s set-up and tactical approach.
Sacchi, who writes a weekly column for La Gazzetta dello Sport, recently criticised Inzaghi for the way in which Inter press and for an alleged tendency to rely on individuals rather than focusing on the team as a whole.
Inzaghi was then asked about Sacchi’s review during his pre-match press conference ahead of Tuesday evening’s European tie against Benfica, revealing that he did not agree with the suggestions.
“We have different views, but everyone is entitled to their own opinion,” Inzaghi said when quizzed on the matter. “I’m happy with the journey I’ve been on here, I will always give it my all,” he continued.
Sacchi has since responded positively to Inzaghi’s comments, replying via La Gazzetta dello Sport: “It’s right that everyone has their own opinions on football, without disrespecting the other person. First of all, I appreciate Simone’s kindness, it’s a sign of civility. You can still be friends, even if you have different ideas.”
However, Sacchi went on to double down on his opinion that Inzaghi should focus more on the team rather than individuals, and that the team could press more effectively.
“Simone focuses a lot on the quality of the players and the management of the group, he has already shown that he is a good tactician. The game that Inter play however, in my opinion is not always at the highest level,” Sacchi said.
He continued: “I would like to see Inter attack continuously and put their opponents on the back foot. They have the technical and athletic ability to do so.
“Simone is doing excellent things, everybody can see that, but the fact is that if you have individualists at your disposal, it becomes difficult to play a collective game.”
Then, when asked whether he thinks Inter should press more, Sacchi replied: “Certainly. If they did, they would get closer to the standards of the highest level of modern football.
“So far, Inzaghi’s work has been excellent, that has to be said. But I repeat, He would become exceptional if he improved his strategy.”