Inter director Beppe Marotta reiterates that Simone Inzaghi’s future will not be judged solely on the Champions League quarter-final with Benfica. ‘The inconsistency has only been in Serie A.’
It kicks off at the Estadio da Luz at 20.00 UK time (19.00 GMT).
You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens on the LIVEBLOG.
Benfica are unbeaten in the Champions League so far this season, failing to beat only PSG with 1-1 draws both home and away.
The Nerazzurri’s recent form has been disappointing, earning just one win, two draws and four defeats between Serie A, the Champions League and Coppa Italia.
“We know the opponents are of all due respect, but these are games where mentality makes a big difference. I saw the players fired up and we have faith,” Marotta told Sport Mediaset.
“Inter are very proud to be here, a position the club had not reached for 12 years, it is a prestigious achievement and we are ready.
“The inconsistent form has only been in Serie A, but it’s logical a big club needs to be competitive and consistent in every tournament it faces. Inzaghi knows that, he is doing a good job and will find the right path in Serie A too.
“You can never judge the present and future of a coach on one match. Inter have pressure on because this is a big club and also the duty to give its best. As I said, we are only off track in Serie A and there is time to turn that around.”
Also speaking to Sky Sport Italia, Marotta replied “absolutely yes” when asked if Inter would see out the season with Inzaghi at the helm.
Inter have certainly improved their Champions League record under Inzaghi compared to Antonio Conte, who never got out of the group stage, reaching the Round of 16 last year and at least the quarter-final here.
“The squad is largely the same as the last two years and they have gained maturity by their progress in Europe, which is considerably better than in previous years.
“Benfica are certainly a strong opponent, but we too must be ready to respond to all their initiatives with our own efforts.”
This team is currently top of the Portuguese league and unbeaten in the Champions League this season, so are not to be underestimated.
“I think Benfica are a great team and a smart model for a club, as they know how the get the best out of young players, help them develop and then sell these formidable assets.
“They have a strong history of eliminating illustrious Italian opponents, so I hope Inter can break that trend and get through. Let’s not forget Inter won their first European trophy against Benfica with a goal from Jair in 1965, so we hope that can bode well.”