Inzaghi: Sparta Prague is a “tough” game for Inter, Frattesi gives me hope

epa11742455 Inter Milan’s head coach Simone Inzaghi catches the match ball during the UEFA Champions League between Inter Milan and RB Leipzig at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium in Milan, Italy, 26 November 2024. EPA-EFE/Daniel Dal Zennaro

Simone Inzaghi warns Inter will need all their determination to beat Sparta Prague in a “tough” game and move closer to a direct place in the last 16 of the Champions League as they stand a chance of securing a place in the top eight by securing a win in the penultimate game of their league phase.

The Nerazzurri coach reiterated his team’s desire to be “protagonists” on the European stage while maintaining the fight for the title. He admitted he still has “some doubts” about the starting XI he will field on Wednesday, with wantaway Davide Frattesi in the running to get the nod for one of Inter’s stars.

Inzaghi wants Inter to be “determined” against Sparta Prague and could start Frattesi

“It will be a tough game,” Inzaghi told reporters in a pre-match press conference, as quoted by Fcinternews.

“I still have a few doubts and have to decide. There are a few doubts and I’ll leave them until tomorrow morning.

“They haven’t played an official game since December 15 but they have done well in friendlies and it’s never easy playing here on this pitch where I also played.

“Sparta is a physical team that plays vertical football. They defend with five defenders, but their formation can adapt. They are a strong team; They did well in their first two games, only losing to top opponents like City and Atlético.

“We need a determined Inter; They have the DNA of the Champions League.

“I don’t like people talking about me; You should talk about Inter, who are on a great path. We have to keep doing what we are doing in both the Champions League and Serie A.

“We want to defend the Scudetto, knowing that we have strong opponents. We want to be protagonists in the Champions League – that’s in Inter’s DNA and we can’t leave anything to chance.

“There are still a lot of games ahead of us, but as a coach I love it. I hope that everyone can help me until the end. Everyone does their part, both me and the fans. Some players are out at the moment, but I hope they return soon because I need everyone.”

Frattesi has been the subject of transfer speculation in recent weeks. He was rumored to be leaving the club in January, but Inzaghi stressed he had “trained very well” and was considering using the former Sassuolo midfielder in place of Nicolò Barella.

“He trained very well yesterday and today,” the manager continued.

“He wanted to be on the bench against Empoli, but he wasn’t available. Now I’m thinking about whether I should start it or not.

“Barella has started seven games in a row and I have to choose between the two. Davide did well and I’m happy because he worked hard in the last few days. He is calm, enjoys being with the group and it gives me hope to see him working the way he has lately.”

Francesco Acerbi’s poor fitness has raised concerns among Inter staff and directors, who may be forced to bring in a defender in the winter transfer window, and the 48-year-old explained his return date has been pushed back because “he still doesn’t can push”. with full intensity.

“The club is always by our side and monitoring the situation, but I wouldn’t change any player,” Inzaghi claimed.

“Acerbi is working well and seemed close to a return against Empoli last Sunday, but he still can’t push with full intensity. We don’t want to rush him.

“He will not be available for Lecce either; he has to continue working alone. I’m not worried though. He is vital to us and will be back soon.”