Inter coach Simone Inzaghi noted how his squad ‘want to try to dream again’ after drawing Atletico Madrid in the Champions League Round of 16.
The Nerazzurri finished second in Group D behind Real Sociedad, a finish that disappointed supporters considering their obvious on-pitch qualities. Inzaghi rotated his squad in the group stage, allowing them to maintain momentum in Serie A as well.
Atletico topped Group E, finishing above Lazio by four points. Inter have only ever played the Spanish side once in the past, suffering a 2-0 loss in the UEFA Super Cup final back in August 2010.
Speaking to Inter’s media department, Inzaghi first reacted to Inter’s draw against Atletico in the Champions League Round of 16.
“It will be a great Round of 16, with two high-quality teams level in two beautiful stadiums that will have a large audience. We’re happy because we continue to face such important matches in Europe with continuity.”
He touched on the qualities of the Spanish club and why they cannot be underestimated.
“They have played two finals in the last ten years and have a great tradition in this competition, our club is no different and we want to try to dream again to give another joy to our fans.
“The Atletico coach, among other things, is Diego Simeone, a great coach with whom I have an excellent relationship. I won a lot with him, including a Scudetto with Lazio.”
Finally, Inzaghi discussed his intention to return focus to Serie A for the next month.
“Now we’ll focus on the next month, we’ll play important matches in the league, and we’ll also have the Coppa Italia and the Supercoppa Italiana. Then we will think about preparing these two big matches, they will be two battles, we will work to be ready.”
Javier Zanetti also gave his thoughts on Inter’s draw with Atletico.
“Atletico are a difficult team to face, I know Simeone very well, we were teammates, we’re friends. I know how he prepares for matches, they’ll be two great matches between two great teams.
“There were so many great teams, we knew it could be a complicated draw. We have great respect for Atletico, we know their history and their culture.
“We know how they prepare, they will be difficult to beat. But we are in a position to play two great games and we will be ready. The matches are complicated both at home and away, doing well at San Siro will be important, but it will be a balanced double match.
“There are great players, we hope to be in shape when it comes to the match. We’re happy with Lautaro, he’s scoring a lot. We’re happy because he always manages to convey a lot of desire to his teammates too.”